Interleukin-21 Muteins and Methods of Treatment

ABSTRACT

Provided herein are IL-21 muteins and fusion proteins comprising the same for use in methods of treating a disease. Related conjugates, nucleic acids, vectors, host cells, pharmaceutical compositions and kits are also provided herein. Methods of making the IL-21 muteins and fusion proteins comprising the same, as well as methods of treating a subject in need thereof, are provided by the present disclosure. Further provided are PD-1 antigen-binding proteins.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/540,692, filed on Aug. 3, 2017, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/616,733, filed on Jan. 12, 2018, is hereby claimed, and the disclosure thereof is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ELECTRONICALLY

Incorporated by reference in its entirety is a computer-readable nucleotide/amino acid sequence listing submitted concurrently herewith and identified as follows: 975,000 byte ASCII (Text) file named “51633_Seqlisting.txt”; created on Jul. 25, 2018.

BACKGROUND

The PD-1/PD-L1 axis is involved in the suppression of T cell immune responses in cancer. Antagonists of this pathway have been clinically validated across a number of solid tumor indications. Nivolumab and pembrolizumab are two such inhibitors that target the PD-1 pathway, and each has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of metastatic melanoma. Recently, researchers have tested the paradigm of checkpoint inhibition in the setting of other tumor types. While some advances have been made, checkpoint inhibition therapy still remains in the shadows of other cancer treatment options.

Studies of checkpoint inhibitors in combination with other agents are underway or recently have been completed. The combination of nivolumab and ipilimumab, a CTLA-4 receptor blocking antibody, for example, was tested in a Phase III clinical trial on patients with unresectable stage III or IV melanoma. In this study, the percentage of patients achieving a complete response was the highest among those that received the combination of nivolumab and ipilimumab, beating the outcome exhibited by those in the group receiving either drug alone. Other combinations are also currently being explored.

Interleukin-21 (IL-21) is a T cell derived pleiotropic cytokine that regulates the activity of both innate and adaptive immune cells. IL-21 can augment T cell survival and effector function. Because it plays a key role in anti-tumor and anti-viral responses, in addition to exerting major effects on inflammatory responses that lead to the development of autoimmune diseases and inflammatory diseases, IL-21 has been an attractive target for several therapies.

However, the development of IL-21-based therapies has been complex. The research has been complicated by studies showing that enhancing, or confusingly, inhibiting IL-21 action leads to a therapeutic effect. Additional challenges exist due to the broad expression of the receptor for IL-21 (IL-21R). IL-21R is expressed not just on T cells, but also on B cells, NK cells and myeloid cells. Accordingly, care must be taken to limit broad IL-21 activation in leukocytes and avoid the potential for toxicity. Restriction of IL-21 signaling must be balanced and selective. Triggering the effects of IL-21 must be designed to occur at the right time and place.

Indeed, any success, especially clinical success with IL-21 moieties as a monotherapy or in combination with checkpoint inhibitors, has been muted. Thus, there remains a need for treatment modalities utilizing IL-21, including modalities combining IL-21 moieties with checkpoint inhibitors. There also remains a need for IL-21 therapies combined with immune checkpoint inhibition.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure provides IL-21 muteins comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2, wherein SEQ ID NO: 2 is

-   -   QGQDX HMXXM XXXXX XVDXL KNXVN DLVPE FLPAP EDVET NCEWS AFSCF         QKAQL KSANT GNNEX XIXXX XXXLX XXXXX TNAGR RQKHR LTCPS CDSYE         KKPPK EFLXX FXXLL XXMXX QHXSS RTHGS EDS (SEQ ID NO: 2), and X is         any amino acid, and wherein the IL-21 mutein amino acid sequence         differs from the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID         NO: 1) by at least 1 amino acid.

Thus, in one aspect, the present disclosure also provides IL-21 muteins comprising only one amino acid substitution, relative to the wild-type IL-21 amino acid sequence, which is provided herein as SEQ ID NO: 1. In exemplary aspects, the amino acid substitution is located at an amino acid position selected from the group consisting of: 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 23, 65, 66, 68, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 109, 110, 112, 113, 116, 117, 119, 120, or 123, according to the amino acid position numbering of SEQ ID NO: 1.

The present disclosure further provides IL-21 muteins comprising only two amino acid substitutions, relative to SEQ ID NO: 1. In exemplary aspects, the amino acid substitutions are located at two amino acid positions selected from the group consisting of: 5, 9, 15, 70, 71, 72, 73, and 76, according to the amino acid position numbering of SEQ ID NO: 1.

In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 muteins bind to the IL-21 receptor (IL-21R) with a reduced affinity, relative to the affinity of wild-type IL-21 for the IL-21 receptor. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein binds to the human IL-21R with a K_(D) that is greater than or is about 0.04 nM. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein bind to the cynomolgus monkey IL-21R with a K_(D) that is greater than or is about 0.055 nM.

The present disclosure also provides conjugates comprising an IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure linked to a heterologous moiety. In exemplary aspects, the heterologous moiety is a polypeptide, such that the conjugate is a fusion protein. Therefore, the present disclosure provides fusion proteins comprising an IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure linked to an antigen-binding protein, such as an antibody, or an antigen binding antibody fragment thereof.

In particular embodiments, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein linked to a PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., a PD-1 antigen-binding antibody) of the present disclosure.

The present disclosure also provides PD-1 antigen-binding proteins and conjugates and fusion proteins comprising a PD-1 antigen-binding protein.

The present disclosure further provides nucleic acids comprising a nucleotide sequence encoding an IL-21 mutein, a PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., a PD-1 antigen-binding antibody), or a fusion protein comprising an IL-21 mutein and a PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., a PD-1 antigen-binding antibody) of the present disclosure. In exemplary aspects, the nucleic acid molecule comprises a nucleotide sequence encoding a conjugate or fusion protein of the present disclosure. Vectors comprising the nucleic acids of the present disclosure and host cells comprising the nucleic acids of the present disclosure are furthermore provided herein.

The present disclosure additionally provides kits comprising an IL-21 mutein, a PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., a PD-1 antigen-binding antibody), a conjugate, fusion protein (e.g., a fusion protein comprising an IL-21 mutein and a PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., a PD-1 antigen-binding antibody)), nucleic acid, vector, or host cell of the present disclosure, or a combination thereof.

Pharmaceutical compositions comprising an IL-21 mutein, a PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., a PD-1 antigen-binding antibody), a conjugate, fusion protein (e.g., a fusion protein comprising an IL-21 mutein and a PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., a PD-1 antigen-binding antibody)), nucleic acid, vector, or host cell of the present disclosure, or a combination thereof, are provided herein.

Methods of making an IL-21 mutein, PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., a PD-1 antigen-binding antibody), and a fusion protein comprising an IL-21 mutein and a PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., a PD-1 antigen-binding antibody) are provided herein. The method, in exemplary embodiments, comprises culturing a host cell of the present disclosure to express the IL-21 mutein, PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., a PD-1 antigen-binding antibody), or a fusion protein comprising an IL-21 mutein and a PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., a PD-1 antigen-binding antibody) and harvesting the expressed IL-21 mutein, PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., a PD-1 antigen-binding antibody), or fusion protein comprising an IL-21 mutein and a PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., a PD-1 antigen-binding antibody).

Methods of treatment are additionally provided by the present disclosure. The method, in exemplary embodiments, is a method of treating a subject in need thereof, comprising administering to the subject in need thereof a pharmaceutical composition of the present disclosure in an amount effective to treat the subject. In exemplary aspects, the subject has a tumor (e.g., a solid tumor, a hematological malignancy, or a lymphoid malignancy) and the pharmaceutical composition is administered to the subject in an amount effective to treat the tumor in the subject. In other exemplary aspects, the tumor is non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) (e.g., Stage III or IV NSCLC), small cell lung cancer (SCLC), head and neck cancer, renal cancer, breast cancer, melanoma, ovarian cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, gastric cancer, bladder cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, cancers with high microsatellite instability (i.e., MSI-high cancers), lymphoma or leukemia.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A represents a graph of the tumor volume (mm³) of BALB/c mice implanted with CT26/3E5 colon carcinoma cells as a function of time (days). On Day 12, tumors were measured and the mice were given an intraperitoneal (IP) injection of 300 μg isotype control antibody (mIgG1) on day 12, 15 and 18.

FIG. 1B represents a graph of the tumor volume (mm³) of BALB/c mice implanted with CT26/3E5 colon carcinoma cells as a function of time (days). On Day 12, tumors were measured and the mice were given an IP injection of 300 μg of an anti-PD-1 antibody on day 12, 15 and 18.

FIG. 1C represents a graph of the tumor volume (mm³) of BALB/c mice implanted with CT26/3E5 colon carcinoma cells as a function of time (days). On Day 12, tumors were measured and the mice were given 50 μg recombinant murine IL-21 (rmIL-21) three times per week for 3 weeks. Dosing ended on Day 33

FIG. 1D represents a graph of the tumor volume (mm³) of BALB/c mice implanted with CT26/3E5 colon carcinoma cells as a function of time (days). On Day 12, tumors were measured and the mice were given 300 μg of an anti-PD-1 antibody on day 12, 15 and 18 and 50 μg rmIL-21 three times per week for 3 weeks. Dosing ended on Day 33.

FIG. 2 represents a graph of percent survival of the four groups of BALB/c mice implanted with CT26/3E5 colon carcinoma cells. Group 1 mice were given an intraperitoneal (IP) injection of 300 g isotype control antibody (mIgG1) on day 12, 15 and 18. Group 2 mice were given an IP injection of 300 μg of an anti-PD-1 antibody on day 12, 15 and 18. Group 3 mice were given 50 μg rmIL-21 three times per week for 3 weeks. Group 4 mice were given 300 μg of an anti-PD-1 antibody on day 12, 15 and 18 and 50 μg rmIL-21 three times per week for 3 weeks. Administration of a combination of anti-PD-1 and rmIL-21 significantly extends survival as compared to monotherapy rmIL-21 or anti-PD-1.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of a hypothesis of the mechanism of action of a fusion protein comprising a blocking PD-1 antibody fused to an IL-21 mutein (αPD-1:IL-21 mutein). Without being bound by a particular theory, it is believed that the fusion binds to IL-21R on CD8+ T cells while simultaneously blocking the signal transduction between PD-1 and PD-L1.

FIG. 4A is an illustration of a fusion protein comprising an anti-PD-1 antibody fused to an IL-21 mutein homodimer. The fusion protein does not have a linker. The antibody may comprise constant regions that reduce or eliminate Fc-associated effector binding and functions (e.g., lack the ability to interact with Fcγ receptors (e.g., SEFL2-2)).

FIG. 4B is an illustration of a fusion protein comprising an anti-PD-1 antibody fused to an IL-21 mutein homodimer. The fusion protein may comprise a GGGGS (G4S) linker between the heavy chain constant region of the antibody and the IL-21 mutein. The antibody may also comprise SEFL2-2 modifications.

FIG. 4C is an illustration of a fusion protein comprising an anti-PD-1 antibody fused to an IL-21 mutein monomer. The fusion protein may comprise a G4S linker between the heavy chain constant region of the antibody and the IL-21 mutein. The antibody heavy chains comprise charge pair mutations (cpm; e.g., V1, V4, V103, or V131) to aid in preferential association of heterodimer Fc regions. The antibody may also comprise SEFL2-2 modifications.

FIG. 5A represents a graph of the STAT3 signaling in PD-1^(−ve) Hut78 T cells exposed to (i) recombinant human IL-21 (rhIL-21) alone (solid line with closed circles), (ii) anti-PD-1 mAb alone (solid line with closed diamonds), (iii) anti-PD-1 mAb fused to an IL-21 homodimer without linker (solid line with closed triangles), (iv) anti-PD-1 mAb fused to an IL-21 homodimer with linker (dashed line with open triangles), (v) anti-PD-1 mAb fused to an IL-21 monomer without linker (solid line with closed squares), or (vi) anti-PD-1 mAb fused to an IL-21 monomer with a linker (dashed line with open squares).

FIG. 5B represents a graph of the STAT3 signaling in PD-1^(+ve) Hut78 T cells exposed to (i) recombinant human IL-21 (rhIL-21) alone (solid line with closed circles), (ii) anti-PD-1 mAb alone (solid line with closed diamonds), (iii) anti-PD-1 mAb fused to an IL-21 homodimer without linker (solid line with closed triangles), (iv) anti-PD-1 mAb fused to an IL-21 homodimer with a linker (dashed line with open triangles), (v) anti-PD-1 mAb fused to an IL-21 monomer without a linker (solid line with closed squares), or (vi) anti-PD-1 mAb fused to an IL-21 monomer with a linker (dashed line with open squares).

FIG. 6 represents a graph of the serum concentrations of a homodimer fusion protein comprising WT IL-21 fused to an anti-PD-1 mAb that was intravenously administered to 6 animals at either a low dose (250 μg/kg) or a high dose (1000 μg/kg). An IgG antibody domain (150 μg/kg) was run as a control.

FIG. 7 represents a graph of the fold reduction in IL-21 activity (relative to rhIL-21 activity) by PD-1^(−ve) Hut78 cells (open bars) or PD-1^(+ve) Hut78 cells (closed bars) exposed to IL-21 muteins with reduced affinity for IL-21Rα.

FIG. 8 represents a graph of the fold reduction in IL-21 activity (relative to rhIL-21 activity) by PD-1^(−ve) Hut78 cells (open bars) or PD-1^(+ve) Hut78 cells (closed bars) exposed to IL-21 muteins with reduced affinity for IL-21Rγ.

FIG. 9A represents a graph of the STAT3 signaling in PD-1^(−ve) Hut78 T cells exposed to (i) recombinant human IL-21 (rhIL-21) alone (solid line with closed circles), (ii) anti-PD-1 mAb fused to a WT IL-21 homodimer (dashed line with open circles), (iii) anti-PD-1 mAb fused to a WT IL-21 monomer (dashed line with closed circles), and (iv) anti-PD-1 mAb fused to an IL-21 mutein 51 homodimer (R65P) (dotted line with closed triangles).

FIG. 9B represents a graph of the STAT3 signaling in PD-1^(+ve) Hut78 T cells exposed to (i) recombinant human IL-21 (rhIL-21) alone (solid line with closed circles), (ii) anti-PD-1 mAb fused to a WT IL-21 homodimer (dashed line with open circles), (iii) anti-PD-1 mAb fused to a WT IL-21 monomer (dashed line with closed circles), and (iv) anti-PD-1 mAb fused to an IL-21 mutein 51 homodimer (R65P) (dotted line with closed triangles).

FIG. 10 represents a graph of the serum concentrations of a fusion protein comprising (i) an anti-PD-1 mAb fused to an IL-21 R76E mutein homodimer (dotted line with closed circles), (ii) an anti-PD-1 mAb fused to an IL-21 R76A mutein homodimer (dashed line with closed triangles), (iii) an anti-PD-1 mAb fused to an IL-21 D15N mutein homodimer (dashed line with X's), (iv) an anti-PD-1 antibody (8.25 mg/kg; dashed line with open diamonds), and (v) an anti-PD-1 mAb fused to a WT IL-21 mutein homodimer (solid line with closed squares).

FIG. 11 represents a graph of the IL-2 (pg/mL) secreted by cells of a mixed lymphocyte reaction as a function of antibody concentration of (i) an anti-PD-1 antibody (solid line with closed circles), (ii) a fusion protein comprising IL-21 R5Q/R76E double mutein homodimer (dashed line with open circles), (iii) a combination of anti-PD-1 mAb and rhIL-21 (dotted line with open squares), (iv) a fusion protein comprising IL-21 R76E single mutein homodimer (closed squares), (v) IgG control (dotted line with open diamonds), and (vi) a rhIL-21 (broken line with open triangles).

FIG. 12A represents a graph of the fold change of over mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) of STAT3 activity of cells exposed to (i) a fusion protein comprising an IL-21 R5E/R76A double mutein (line with open triangles), (ii) an IgG1 control (dotted line with closed diamonds), (iii) rhIL-21 (dashed line with open squares), (iv) an anti-PD-1 mAb (solid line with open ovals), (v) a combination of rhIL-21 and anti-PD-1 mAb (dashed line with closed ovals), or (vi) a fusion protein comprising an IL-21 R76E single mutein (line with open diamonds).

FIG. 12B represents a graph of the fold change of over MFI of STAT3 activity of cells exposed to (i) a fusion protein comprising an IL-21 R5Q/R76E double mutein (line with open triangles), (ii) an IgG1 control (dotted line with closed diamonds), (iii) rhIL-21 (dashed line with open squares), (iv) an anti-PD-1 mAb (solid line with open ovals), (v) a combination of rhIL-21 and anti-PD-1 mAb (dashed line with closed ovals), or (vi) a fusion protein comprising an IL-21 R76E single mutein (line with open diamonds).

FIG. 12C represents a graph of the fold change of over MFI of STAT3 activity of cells exposed to (i) a fusion protein comprising an IL-21 R9E/R76A double mutein (line with open triangles), (ii) an IgG1 control (dotted line with closed diamonds), (iii) rhIL-21 (dashed line with open squares), (iv) an anti-PD-1 mAb (solid line with open ovals), (v) a combination of rhIL-21 and anti-PD-1 mAb (dashed line with closed ovals), or (vi) a fusion protein comprising an IL-21 R76E single mutein (line with open diamonds).

FIG. 13A represents a graph of the % specific lysis by CTLs (y-axis) vs effector to target cell ratios (x-axis) exposed to (i) rhIL-21 (solid line with closed circles), (ii) hIgG4 control antibody (dashed line with open circles), (iii) anti-PD-1 mAb (dashed line with closed triangles), (iv) a combination of rhIL-21 and anti-PD-1 mAb (dotted line with open triangles), or (v) a fusion protein comprising IL-21 R5E/R76A (broken line with X's).

FIG. 13B represents a graph of the % specific lysis by CTLs exposed to represents a graph of the % specific lysis by CTLs exposed to (i) rhIL-21 (solid line with closed circles), (ii) hIgG4 control antibody (dashed line with open circles), (iii) anti-PD-1 mAb (dashed line with closed triangles), (iv) a combination of rhIL-21 and anti-PD-1 mAb (dotted line with open triangles), or (v) a fusion protein comprising IL-21 R5Q/R76E (broken line with X's).

FIG. 13C represents a graph of the % specific lysis by CTLs exposed to (i) rhIL-21 (solid line with closed circles), (ii) hIgG4 control antibody (dashed line with open circles), (iii) anti-PD-1 mAb (dashed line with closed triangles), (iv) a combination of rhIL-21 and anti-PD-1 mAb (dotted line with open triangles), or (v) a fusion protein comprising IL-21 R9E/R76A (broken line with X's).

FIG. 14 represents serum concentrations of (i) anti-PD-1 mAb (solid line with closed squares), (ii) a fusion protein comprising anti-PD-1 mAb and an IL-21 R5Q/R76E homodimer (solid line with closed circles), (iii) a fusion protein comprising anti-PD-1 mAb and an IL-21 R76E homodimer (solid line), (iv) a fusion protein comprising anti-PD-1 mAb and an IL-21 R5E/R76A homodimer (dashed line with X's), (v) a fusion protein comprising anti-PD-1 mAb and an IL-21 R76A homodimer (dashed line with closed diamonds), or (vi) a fusion protein comprising anti-PD-1 mAb and an IL-21 R76E monomer (solid line with closed triangles).

FIG. 15A represents a timeline of the cell sampling (open arrows) and of the administrations (closed arrows).

FIG. 15B represents a graph of the fold change in PD-1⁺/CD4⁺ cells (relative to Day −5) as measured on Day 7 in animals given a dose of (i) a fusion protein comprising anti-PD-1 mAb and an IL-21 R76E mutein (bar with horizontal lines), (ii) a fusion protein comprising anti-PD-1 mAb and an IL-21 R76E single mutein monomer (bar with vertical lines), or (iii) a fusion protein comprising anti-PD-1 mAb and an IL-21 R5Q/R76E double mutein homodimer (open bar) (each administered on Day 0).

FIG. 15C represents a graph of the fold change in PD-1⁺/CD8⁺ cells (relative to Day −5) as measured on Day 7 in animals given a dose of (i) a fusion protein comprising anti-PD-1 mAb and an IL-21 R76E mutein (bar with horizontal lines), (ii) a fusion protein comprising anti-PD-1 mAb and an IL-21 R76E single mutein monomer (bar with vertical lines), or (iii) a fusion protein comprising anti-PD-1 mAb and an IL-21 R5Q/R76E double mutein homodimer (open bar) (each administered on Day 0).

FIG. 15D represents a graph of the fold change in PD-1⁺/CD8⁺ cells (relative to Day −5) as measured on Day 21 in animals given a first dose of (i) a fusion protein comprising anti-PD-1 mAb and an IL-21 R76E mutein (bar with horizontal lines), (ii) a fusion protein comprising anti-PD-1 mAb and an IL-21 R76E single mutein monomer (bar with vertical lines), or (iii) a fusion protein comprising anti-PD-1 mAb and an IL-21 R5Q/R76E double mutein homodimer (open bar) (first dose administered on Day 0 and second dose administered on Day 8).

FIG. 16 represents a graph of the expansion of PD-1⁺/CD8⁺ cells (relative to Day −5) as a function of PD-1 receptor occupancy (RO) on PD-1⁺/CD8⁺ cells. IL-21 single mutants (801, 802, 807, and 808) are shown within the blue circle and IL-21 double mutants (803, 804, 805, and 806) are shown in the pink circle. These data demonstrate that superior pharmacokinetic properties of the double mutants allow for better target coverage and correlates with better pharmacodynamics responses, as measured by expansion of the PD-1⁺ target population. The blue line indicates the general delineation between single and double mutants.

FIG. 17 represents flow plots of individual animals treated with either single mutant homodimer constructs (animals 801 and 802), double mutant homodimer constructs (animals 803-806), or single mutant monomeric constructs (animals 807 and 808). PD-1+ T cells were detected by non-competing or competing detection antibody. Percent target coverage is calculated as a percentage of the ratio between competing and non-competing PD-1 antibody. The data show that all constructs demonstrate robust target coverage after repeat dosing on Day 21.

FIG. 18A represents a graph of the fold change (relative to rhIL-21 (solid line with circled X's)) of STAT3 activity of PD-1^(−ve) Hut78 T cells exposed to a fusion protein comprising one of ten different anti-PD-1 mAbs and an IL-21 R5Q/R76E mutein homodimer. The ten anti-PD-1 mAbs included 20A2.003 (line with diamonds), 20C1.006 (red square), 20C1.009 (line with triangles), and 22D4.006 (line with open circles).

FIG. 18B represents a graph of the fold change (relative to rhIL-21 (solid line with circled X's)) of STAT3 activity of PD-1+ve Hut78 T cells exposed to a fusion protein comprising one of ten different anti-PD-1 mAbs and an IL-21 R5Q/R76E mutein homodimer. The ten anti-PD-1 mAbs included 20A2.003 (line with diamonds), 20C1.006 (red square), 20C1.009 (line with triangles), and 22D4.006 (line with open circles). Comparison of FIG. 18A to FIG. 18B indicates that PD-1 targeting needed for pSTAT3 signaling and that the activity of the muteins is similar when fused to different anti-PD-1 mAbs.

FIG. 19A represents a graph of the fold change (relative to rhIL-21 (solid line with circled X's)) of STAT3 activity of PD-1^(−ve) Hut78 T cells exposed to a fusion protein comprising one of seven different anti-PD-1 mAbs and an IL-21 R9E/R76A mutein homodimer. The seven anti-PD-1 mAbs included 20A2.003 (line with open triangles), 20C1.006 (line with open squares), 20C1.009 (line with open diamonds), and 22D4.006 (line with open circles).

FIG. 19B represents a graph of the fold change (relative to rhIL-21 (solid line with circled X's)) of STAT3 activity of PD-1^(+ve) Hut78 T cells exposed to a fusion protein comprising one of seven different anti-PD-1 mAbs and an IL-21 R9E/R76A mutein homodimer. Comparison of FIG. 19A to FIG. 19B indicates that PD-1 targeting needed for pSTAT3 signaling and that the activity of the muteins is similar when fused to different anti-PD-1 mAbs. The seven anti-PD-1 mAbs included 20A2.003 (line with open triangles), 20C1.006 (line with open squares), 20C1.009 (line with open diamonds), and 22D4.006 (line with open circles).

FIG. 20 A represents the amount of pSTAT3 signaling in PD-1^(−ve) cells observed with several anti-PD-1 mAb-IL-21 monomeric or dimeric double mutein fusions. Solid line with closed circles (top of graphs) is rhIL-21; dashed line with open circles (bottom of graphs) is IgG1 control; line with X's (bottom of graphs) is IgG2 control; dotted line with closed squares (bottom of graphs) is the 22D4.006 anti-PD-1 mAb (present as mAb; i.e., not as a fusion) used in the IL-21 mutein fusions; dashed line with open squares and dotted line with open diamonds (bottom of graphs) are control anti-PD-1 mAbs; remaining lines are anti-PD-1 mAb (22D4.006)-IL-21 monomeric or dimeric double mutein fusions (with various charge pair mutations) wherein the double mutants are R5E/R76A; R9E/R76A; R5A/R76E or R5Q/R76E. FIG. 20B is a duplicate run of FIG. 20A. FIG. 20C represents the amount of pSTAT3 signaling in PD-1^(+ve) cells observed with the same fusions tested in FIGS. 20A and 20B. FIG. 20D is a duplicate run of FIG. 20C. rhIL-21 demonstrates activity in both PD-1^(−ve) and PD-1^(+ve) cells, monomeric and homodimeric double mutein fusions are unable to demonstrate pSTAT3 (IL-21-based) activity in PD-1^(−ve) cells, and monomeric and homodimeric double mutein fusions are able to demonstrate pSTAT3 (IL-21-based) activity in PD-1^(+ve) cells. Thus, monomeric fusions with IL-21 double mutants exhibit similar levels of IL-21 activity attenuation in PD-1^(−ve) cells and IL-21 activity rescue in PD-1^(+ve) cells as their counterpart dimeric fusions.

FIG. 21A represents the results of a PD-1 reporter gene assay (RGA) with the same anti-PD-1 mAb (22D4.006)-IL-21 monomeric or dimeric double mutein fusions evaluated in FIGS. 20A-20D. Solid line with closed circles (bottom of graphs) is rhIL-21; line with open circles (bottom of graphs) is IgG1 control; line with X's (bottom of graphs) is IgG2 control; dashed line with closed squares (top of graphs) is the 22D4.006 anti-PD-1 mAb (present as mAb; i.e., not as a fusion) used in the IL-21 mutein fusions; dashed line with open squares and dotted line with open diamonds (top of graphs) are control anti-PD-1 mAbs; remaining lines are anti-PD-1 mAb-IL-21 monomeric or dimeric double mutein fusions. FIGS. 21A and 21B are duplicate runs of the PD-1 RGA assay. FIGS. 20C and 20D are duplicate runs of the MLR assay. FIG. 21B represents the results of a second PD-1 reporter gene assay (RGA) with the same anti-PD-1 mAb (22D4.006)-IL-21 monomeric or dimeric double mutein fusions evaluated in FIGS. 20A-20D. FIG. 21C represents the results of a MLR assay with the same anti-PD-1 mAb (22D4.006)-IL-21 monomeric or dimeric double mutein fusions evaluated in FIGS. 20A-20D. FIG. 21D represents the results of a second MLR assay with the same anti-PD-1 mAb (22D4.006)-IL-21 monomeric or dimeric double mutein fusions evaluated in FIGS. 20A-20D. FIGS. 21A-21D demonstrate that anti-PD-1 mAb (22D4.006)-IL-21 monomeric and dimeric double mutein fusions are able to induce PD-1 activity.

FIG. 22A represents the results of a pSTAT3 assay in PD-1^(−ve) cells testing the same constructs as those in FIGS. 20A-20D, except that a different anti-PD-1 mAb (20A2.003) is used in the anti-PD-1 mAb-IL-21 monomeric and dimeric double mutein fusions. Solid line with closed circles (top of graphs) is rhIL-21; dashed line with open circles (bottom of graphs) is IgG1 control; line with X's (bottom of graphs) is IgG2 control; dotted line with closed squares (bottom of graphs) is the 20A2.003 anti-PD-1 mAb (present as mAb; i.e., not as a fusion) used in the IL-21 mutein fusions; dashed line with open squares and dotted line with open diamonds (bottom of graphs) are control anti-PD-1 mAbs; remaining lines are anti-PD-1 mAb (20A2.003)-IL-21 monomeric or dimeric double mutein fusions (with various charge pair mutations) wherein the double mutants are R5E/R76A; R9E/R76A; R5A/R76E or R5Q/R76E. FIG. 22B is a duplicate run of FIG. 22A. FIG. 22C represents the results of a pSTAT3 assay in PD-1^(+ve) cells testing the same constructs as those in FIGS. 20A-20D, except that a different anti-PD-1 mAb (20A2.003) is used in the anti-PD-1 mAb-IL-21 monomeric and dimeric double mutein fusions. FIG. 22D is a duplicate run of FIG. 22C. The results in FIGS. 22A-22D are similar to those seen in FIGS. 20A-20D.

FIG. 23A represents the results of a PD-1 RGA testing the same constructs as those in FIGS. 21A-21D, except that a different anti-PD-1 mAb (20A2.003) is used in the anti-PD-1 mAb-IL-21 monomeric and dimeric double mutein fusions. Solid line with closed circles (bottom of graphs) is rhIL-21; dashedline with open circles (bottom of graphs) is IgG1 control; line with X's (bottom of graphs) is IgG2 control; dotted line (top of graphs) is the 20A2.003 anti-PD-1 mAb (present as mAb; i.e., not as a fusion) used in the IL-21 mutein fusions; dashed line with open squares and dotted line with open diamonds (top of graphs) are control anti-PD-1 mAbs; remaining lines are anti-PD-1 mAb (20A2.003)-IL-21 monomeric or dimeric double mutein fusions. FIG. 23B is a duplicate run of FIG. 23A. FIG. 23C represents the results of a MLR assay testing the same constructs as those in FIGS. 21A-21D, except that a different anti-PD-1 mAb (20A2.003) is used in the anti-PD-1 mAb-IL-21 monomeric and dimeric double mutein fusions. FIG. 23D is a duplicate run of FIG. 23D. The results in FIGS. 23A-23D are similar to those seen in FIGS. 21A-21D.

FIG. 24 represents a graph of the NFAT/luciferase activity of purified anti-PD-1 antibodies as a function of mAb concentration.

FIG. 25A is a graph of the fold change in the number of Ki67+/CD3+/CD4+ cells relative to baseline upon exposure to the fusion protein [22D4.017]-[R9E:R76A] (monomer) or to the anti-PD-1 antibody [22D4.017].

FIG. 25B is a graph of the fold change in the number of Ki67+/CD3+/CD8+ cells relative to baseline upon exposure to the fusion protein [22D4.017]-[R9E:R76A] (monomer) or to the anti-PD-1 antibody [22D4.017].

FIG. 25C is a graph of the fold change in the number of pSTAT3+/CD3+/CD4+ cells relative to baseline upon exposure to the fusion protein [22D4.017]-[R9E:R76A] (monomer) or to the anti-PD-1 antibody [22D4.017].

FIG. 25D is a graph of the fold change in the number of pSTAT3+/CD3+/CD8+ cells relative to baseline upon exposure to the fusion protein [22D4.017]-[R9E:R76A] (monomer) or to the anti-PD-1 antibody [22D4.017].

FIG. 25E is a graph of the fold change in the number of CD3+/CD4+ cells relative to baseline upon exposure to the fusion protein [22D4.017]-[R9E:R76A] (monomer) or to the anti-PD-1 antibody [22D4.017].

FIG. 25F is a graph of the fold change in the number of CD3+/CD8+ cells relative to baseline upon exposure to the fusion protein [22D4.017]-[R9E:R76A] (monomer) or to the anti-PD-1 antibody [22D4.017].

FIG. 25G is a graph of the fold change in the number of PD-1+/CD3+/CD4+ cells relative to baseline upon exposure to the fusion protein [22D4.017]-[R9E:R76A] (monomer) or to the anti-PD-1 antibody [22D4.017].

FIG. 25H is a graph of the fold change in the number of PD-1+/CD3+/C84+ cells relative to baseline upon exposure to the fusion protein [22D4.017]-[R9E:R76A] (monomer) or to the anti-PD-1 antibody [22D4.017].

FIG. 25I is a graph of the fold change in the amount of serum perforin relative to baseline upon 72 hours of exposure to the fusion protein [22D4.017]-[R9E:R76A] (monomer) or to the anti-PD-1 antibody [22D4.017].

FIG. 25J is a graph of the % Ki67+ cells relative to baseline as a function of fold increase in perforin upon 72 hour exposure to the fusion protein [22D4.017]-[R9E:R76A] (monomer) or to the anti-PD-1 antibody [22D4.017].

FIG. 26A is a graph of the absorbance (nm) as a function of time (sec) used to determine the indicated K_(D) of antibody 22D4.017 for human PD-1 antigen.

FIG. 26B is a graph of the absorbance (nm) as a function of time (sec) used to determine the indicated K_(D) of antibody 20C1.009 for human PD-1 antigen.

FIG. 26C is a graph of the absorbance (nm) as a function of time (sec) used to determine the indicated K_(D) of antibody 20A2.003 for human PD-1 antigen.

FIG. 26D is a graph of the absorbance (nm) as a function of time (sec) used to determine the indicated K_(D) of an IgG1 anti-PD-1 mAb, for human PD-1 antigen.

FIG. 26E is a graph of the absorbance (nm) as a function of time (sec) used to determine the indicated K_(D) of an IgG4 PD-1 mAb for human PD-1 antigen.

FIG. 26F is a graph of the absorbance (nm) as a function of time (sec) used to determine the indicated K_(D) of 22D4.017 for cyno PD-1 antigen.

FIG. 26G is a graph of the absorbance (nm) as a function of time (sec) used to determine the indicated K_(D) of antibody 20C1.009 for cyno PD-1 antigen.

FIG. 26H is a graph of the absorbance (nm) as a function of time (sec) used to determine the indicated K_(D) of antibody 20A2.003 for cyno PD-1 antigen.

FIG. 26I is a graph of the absorbance (nm) as a function of time (sec) used to determine the indicated K_(D) of an IgG1 anti-PD-1 mAb for cyno PD-1 antigen.

FIG. 26J is a graph of the absorbance (nm) as a function of time (sec) used to determine the indicated K_(D) of an IgG4 anti-PD-1 mAb for cyno PD-1 antigen.

FIG. 27 is a graph of the Cp (kcal/mole/° C.) as a function of temperature for anti-PD-1 antibodies 22D4.017 and 20C1.009.

FIG. 28 is a graph of the viscosity plotted against shear rate for anti-PD-1 antibodies 22D4.017 and 20C1.009.

FIG. 29A is a graph plotting the signal as a function of antibody concentration in a variant Hut78 T cell line that is PD-1 positive. FIG. 29B is a graph plotting the signal as a function of antibody concentration in a variant Hut78 T cell line that is TIGIT positive. FIG. 29C is a graph plotting the signal as a function of antibody concentration in a variant Hut78 T cell line that is LAG3 positive. FIG. 29D is a graph plotting the signal as a function of antibody concentration in the parental Hut78 T cell line which does not endogenously express PD-1, TIGIT or LAG3.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

There remains a need for novel immune potentiating approaches that can deploy the immune system against cancer cells in a safe and efficacious manner, especially in light of the fact that current immunotherapy approaches are efficacious in only a minority of patients, and can have significant and often unpredictable toxicities. In one aspect, the novel class of bifunctional fusion molecules comprising a PD-1 targeting antibody that can block PD-1/PD-L1 interaction, fused to an engineered affinity attenuated interleukin-21 mutein disclosed herein addresses this need. The antibody/cytokine fusions described herein overcome significant barriers associated with cytokine therapeutics, allowing for, inter alia, antibody-like dosing and selective delivery of the IL-21 cytokine in a PD-1 targeted manner. When fused to an anti-PD-1 antibody, IL-21 muteins can selectively activate and expand PD-1 expressing T cells in vivo. Accordingly, the antibody/cytokine fusions described herein may improve upon and extend the utility of anti-PD-1 therapeutics currently under testing in the clinic.

The combination of cytokine and co-inhibitory receptor agonists or antagonists remains challenging because of the risks of incremental toxicity and the need for complex clinical trial design (see, e.g., Ott et al., J Immunother Cancer 5, 16 (2017); and Hermel et al., Cancer Metastasis Rev 36, 43-50 (2017)). With respect to cytokines, there is also the potential for the activation of inhibitory feedback pathways that can lead to immune suppression (see, e.g., Portielje et al, Clin Cancer Res 9, 76-83 (2003); Wan et al., Immunity 38, 514-527 (2013); and Mooradian et al., Oncoimmunology 7, e1423172 (2018)). Interleukin-21 (IL-21) is a type I cytokine and a member of the common cytokine receptor gamma-chain (cg-chain) cytokine family that has emerged as a promising immune therapeutic for the treatment of cancer. IL-21 is produced by activated CD4 T cells and natural killer T (NKT) cells and signals via a heterodimeric receptor complex comprised of a discrete IL-21 receptor (IL-21R) subunit that associates with the common gamma-chain (see, e.g., Spolski et al., Nat Rev Drug Discov 13, 379-395 (2014)). Activation of the IL-21R complex leads to the activation of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway. IL-21R is broadly expressed in hematopoietic cells including T and B lymphocytes, natural killer (NK) cells and myeloid cells. Although not an essential growth or differentiation factor, IL-21 is a potent mitogen and survival factor for NK cells and activated T cells. IL-21 can support the differentiation of CD4 (+) T helper 17 (Th17) as well follicular helper T cells (Tfh) and can antagonize regulatory T cell (Treg) differentiation. Moreover, IL-21 can augment the survival of CD8 T cells and preserves a less activated but more persistent T cell phenotype, which allows for enhanced tumor and viral control.

A challenging aspect of cytokine immunotherapy is that, in addition to activating immune cells to potentiate immune responses, the same cytokine can also activate counter-regulatory pathways. For example, IL-2 and IFNγ which can activate protective immune responses as well as regulatory T cell responses and inhibitory pathways (such as PD-L1) respectively. In dendritic cells (DCs), IL-21 can inhibit both DC maturation and activation, can induce the apoptosis of conventional DCs, can potently inhibit the priming of T cells in mixed cultures, and may play a role in the induction of tolerance. In humans, IL-21 has been tested as a non-targeted free cytokine in several cancer indications, but despite the promising preclinical data and early phase I clinical data, development of this approach has not progressed further than phase II testing (see, e.g., Thompson et al., J Clin Oncol 26, 2034-2039 (2008); and Davis et al., Clin Cancer Res 15, 2123-2129 (2009)). In more recent preclinical models, the combination of recombinant IL-21 cytokine with co-inhibitory receptor antagonists (e.g., anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1) have demonstrated that IL-21 can extend the efficacy of these treatments. Such combinations are now under testing in the clinic, though clinical efficacy has yet to be demonstrated (Lewis et al., Oncoimmunology 7, e1377873 (2017)).

Without being bound by a theory, the antibody/cytokine fusions described herein are designed to utilize the immune potentiating activity of IL-21 (which may be prerequisite to address toxicity and off-target immune suppression), to maximize efficacy, and improve the feasibility of dosing in the clinic.

IL-21 and IL-21 Muteins

Interleukin-21 (IL-21) is a cytokine expressed by T cells, B cells, NK cells and myeloid cells, and regulates the activity of both innate and adaptive immune cells and improves T cell survival and effector function. Several Phase I and II clinical trials include IL-21 as the investigational product for the treatment of cancers, inflammatory diseases, and autoimmune diseases, including, melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, acute myeloid leukemia, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, ovarian cancer, colorectal cancer, systemic lupus erythematosus, Crohn's disease and rheumatoid arthritis.

IL-21 has a four-helix bundle structure and exists as a monomer. In humans, two isoforms of IL-21 are known, each of which are derived from a precursor molecule. The first IL-21 isoform comprises 162 amino acids (aa), the first 29 of which make up the signal peptide; and the second IL-21 isoform comprises 153 aa, the first 29 of which make up the signal peptide as in the first isoform. The amino acid sequences of the first and second IL-21 isoforms (including the signal peptide) are provided herein as SEQ ID NO: 258 and SEQ ID NO: 259, respectively.

IL-21 binds to the heterodimeric IL-21 receptor (IL-21R) expressed on the surface of T, B, and NK cells. IL-21R is similar in structure to the IL-2 receptor and the IL-15 receptor, in that each of these cytokine receptors comprises a common gamma chain (γc). In addition to the γc, the IL-21R comprises an alpha chain which is important for binding to IL-21. There are two isoforms of the human IL-21 receptor alpha chain: isoform 1 and isoform 2. The amino acid sequences of isoform 1 and isoform 2 are provided herein as SEQ ID NOs: 256 and 261, respectively. The amino acid sequence of the human common gamma chain is provided herein as SEQ ID NO: 257.

When IL-21 binds to IL-21R, the Jak/STAT signaling pathway is activated to activate target genes. While IL-21-induced signaling may be therapeutically desirable, careful consideration of the timing and the location of the signaling is needed, given IL-21's broad expression profile and due to the fact that IL-21 has the ability to potentiate CD8 T cell responses as well as to suppress antigen presentation and T cell priming. The data presented herein for the first time supports the use of carefully designed IL-21 muteins to achieve IL-21 signaling at the appropriate time and place.

The present disclosure provides IL-21 muteins comprising at least one amino acid substitution, relative to the wild-type IL-21 amino acid sequence, which is provided herein as SEQ ID NO: 1. For example, the IL-21 mutein comprises at least one and not more than 34 amino acid substitutions. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises at least one and not more than X amino acid substitutions, wherein X is 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, or 34. In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence which differs from the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1) by no more than 10 amino acids, 15 amino acids, 20 amino acids, or 25 amino acids. In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence which differs from the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1) by no more than 7 amino acids or no more than 5 amino acids. In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence which differs from the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1) by 3, 4, 5, or 6 amino acids. In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence which differs from the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1) by 3 to 6 amino acids or 1 to 5 amino acids. In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence which differs from the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1) by one or two amino acids.

In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2, wherein SEQ ID NO: 2 is

-   -   QGQDX HMXXM XXXXX XVDXL KNXVN DLVPE FLPAP EDVET NCEWS AFSCF         QKAQL KSANT GNNEX XIXXX XXXLX XXXXX TNAGR RQKHR LTCPS CDSYE         KKPPK EFLXX FXXLL XXMXX QHXSS RTHGS EDS (SEQ ID NO: 2), wherein         X represents any amino acid, and wherein the IL-21 mutein amino         acid sequence differs from the amino acid sequence of human         IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1) by at least 1 amino acid.

Thus, in exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2, wherein SEQ ID NO: 2 differs from SEQ ID NO: 1 by at least one amino acid at a position designated by X in SEQ ID NO: 2. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprising SEQ ID NO: 2 has at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 1. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence which is at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 1.

In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence comprising at least one amino acid substitution relative to the wild-type IL-21 amino acid sequence, and the amino acid substitution(s) occur(s) within the N-terminal half of the amino acid sequence. For example, the amino acid substitution(s) occur(s) at a position within positions 5-25 or 8-23 (both inclusive), according to the amino acid position numbering of SEQ ID NO: 1.

In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence comprising at least one amino acid substitution relative to the wild-type IL-21 amino acid sequence, and the amino acid substitution(s) occur(s) within the C-terminal half of the amino acid sequence. For example, the amino acid substitution(s) occur(s) at a position within positions 100-133 or 109-123 (both inclusive), according to the amino acid position numbering of SEQ ID NO: 1.

In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence comprising at least one amino acid substitution relative to the wild-type IL-21 amino acid sequence, and the amino acid substitution(s) occur(s) in the middle third of the amino acid sequence. For example, the amino acid substitution(s) occur(s) at a position within positions 55-85 or 65-80 (both inclusive), according to the amino acid position numbering of SEQ ID NO: 1.

The present disclosure also provides IL-21 muteins comprising only one amino acid substitution, relative to the wild-type IL-21 amino acid sequence, which is provided herein as SEQ ID NO: 1. In exemplary aspects, the amino acid substitution is located at an amino acid position selected from the group consisting of: 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 23, 65, 66, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 109, 110, 112, 113, 116, 117, 119, 120, or 123, according to the amino acid position numbering of SEQ ID NO: 1. In other exemplary aspects, the amino acid substitution is located at an amino acid position selected from the group consisting of: 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 23, 65, 66, 68, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 109, 110, 112, 113, 116, 117, 119, 120, or 123, according to the amino acid position numbering of SEQ ID NO: 1. In yet other exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises any one of the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 3-21 and 23-37.

The present disclosure further provides IL-21 muteins comprising only two amino acid substitutions, relative to SEQ ID NO: 1. In exemplary aspects, the amino acid substitutions are located at two amino acid positions selected from the group consisting of: 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 23, 65, 66, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 109, 110, 112, 113, 116, 117, 119, 120, or 123, according to the amino acid position numbering of SEQ ID NO: 1. In other exemplary aspects, the amino acid substitutions are located at two amino acid positions selected from the group consisting of: 5, 9, 15, 70, 71, 72, 73, and 76, according to the amino acid position numbering of SEQ ID NO: 1. In yet other exemplary aspects, the amino acid substitutions are located at two amino acid positions selected from the group consisting of: 5, 9, 73, and 76, according to the amino acid position numbering of SEQ ID NO: 1. In exemplary aspects, at least one of the two amino acid substitutions is located at position 76, according to the amino acid position numbering of SEQ ID NO: 1. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises any one of the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 199-208 and 210-212.

In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence comprising at least one amino acid substitution relative to the wild-type IL-21 amino acid sequence, and the amino acid substitution(s) is/are conservative amino acid substitution(s). As used herein, the term “conservative amino acid substitution” refers to the substitution of one amino acid with another amino acid having similar properties, e.g., size, charge, hydrophobicity, hydrophilicity, and/or aromaticity, and includes exchanges within one of the following five groups:

-   -   I. Small aliphatic, nonpolar or slightly polar residues: Ala,         Ser, Thr, Pro, Gly;     -   II. Polar, negatively charged residues and their amides and         esters: Asp, Asn, Glu, Gln, cysteic acid and homocysteic acid;     -   III. Polar, positively charged residues: His, Arg, Lys;         Ornithine (Orn)     -   IV. Large, aliphatic, nonpolar residues: Met, Leu, Ile, Val,         Cys, Norleucine (Nle), homocysteine     -   V. Large, aromatic residues: Phe, Tyr, Trp, acetyl         phenylalanine.

In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence comprising at least one amino acid substitution relative to the wild-type IL-21 amino acid sequence, and the amino acid substitution(s) is/are non-conservative amino acid substitution(s). As used herein, the term “non-conservative amino acid substitution” is defined herein as the substitution of one amino acid with another amino acid having different properties, e.g., size, charge, hydrophobicity, hydrophilicity, and/or aromaticity, and includes exchanges outside the above five groups.

In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence comprising at least one amino acid substitution relative to the wild-type IL-21 amino acid sequence, and the substitute amino acid is a naturally-occurring amino acid. By “naturally-occurring amino acid” or “standard amino acid” or “canonical amino acid” is meant one of the 20 alpha amino acids found in eukaryotes encoded directly by the codons of the universal genetic code (Ala, Val, Ile, Leu, Met, Phe, Tyr, Trp, Ser, Thr, Asn, Gln, Cys, Gly, Pro, Arg, His, Lys, Asp, Glu). In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence comprising at least one amino acid substitution relative to the wild-type IL-21 amino acid sequence, and the substitute amino acid is a non-standard amino acid, or an amino acid which is not incorporated into proteins during translation. Non-standard amino acids include, but are not limited to: selenocysteine, pyrrolysine, ornithine, norleucine, β-amino acids (e.g., β-alanine, β-aminoisobutyric acid, β-phenlyalanine, β-homophenylalanine, β-glutamic acid, β-glutamine, J-homotryptophan, β-leucine, β-lysine), homo-amino acids (e.g., homophenylalanine, homoserine, homoarginine, monocysteine, homocystine), N-methyl amino acids (e.g., L-abrine, N-methyl-alanine, N-methyl-isoleucine, N-methyl-leucine), 2-aminocaprylic acid, 7-aminocephalosporanic acid, 4-aminocinnamic acid, alpha-aminocyclohexanepropionic acid, amino-(4-hydroxyphenyl)acetic acid, 4-amino-nicotinic acid, 3-aminophenylacetic acid, and the like.

In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence with at least one amino acid substitution relative to the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1), the amino acid substitution is at one or more of positions 5, 8, 9, 12, 14, 15, 65, 66, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 80, 116, and 119 of SEQ ID NO: 1, and the substitute amino acid(s) is/are aliphatic amino acids. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence with only one amino acid substitution, relative to SEQ ID NO: 1, the amino acid substitution is at position 5, 8, 9, 12, 14, 15, 65, 66, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 80, 116, or 119 of SEQ ID NO: 1, and the substitute amino acid is an aliphatic amino acid.

In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence with at least one amino acid substitution relative to the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1), the amino acid substitution is at one or more of positions 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 23, 65, 66, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 110, 112, 116, 117, 119, 120, or 123 of SEQ ID NO: 1, and the substitute amino acid(s) is/are acidic amino acids. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence with only one amino acid substitution, relative to SEQ ID NO: 1, the amino acid substitution is at position 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 23, 65, 66, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 110, 112, 116, 117, 119, 120, or 123 of SEQ ID NO: 1, and the substitute amino acid is an acidic amino acid.

In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence with at least one amino acid substitution relative to the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1), the amino acid substitution is at one or more of positions 5, 9, 73, 76, 109, 113, or 116 of SEQ ID NO: 1, and the substitute amino acid(s) is/are basic amino acids. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence with only one amino acid substitution, relative to SEQ ID NO: 1, and the amino acid at position 5, 9, 73, 76, 109, 113, or 116 of SEQ ID NO: 1 is a basic amino acid.

In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence with at least one amino acid substitution relative to the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1), the amino acid substitution is at one or more of positions 5, 8, 9, 70, or 76 of SEQ ID NO: 1, and the substitute amino acid(s) is/are aromatic amino acids. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence with only one amino acid substitution, relative to SEQ ID NO: 1, the amino acid substitution is at position 5, 8, 9, 70, or 76 of SEQ ID NO: 1, and the substitute amino acid is an aromatic amino acid.

In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence with at least one amino acid substitution relative to the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1), the amino acid substitution is at one or more of positions 5, 8, 9, 12, 15, 73, 76, 116, or 119 of SEQ ID NO: 1, and the substitute amino acid(s) is/are amino acids comprising a side chain amide. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence with only one amino acid substitution, relative to SEQ ID NO: 1, the amino acid substitution is at position 5, 8, 9, 12, 15, 73, 76, 116, or 119 of SEQ ID NO: 1, and the substitute amino acid is an amino acid comprising a side chain amide.

In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence with at least one amino acid substitution relative to the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1), the amino acid substitution is at one or more of positions 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 15, 73, 76, 116, or 119 of SEQ ID NO: 1, and the substitute amino acid(s) is/are amino acids comprising a side chain hydroxyl. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence with only one amino acid substitution, relative to SEQ ID NO: 1, the amino acid substitution is at position 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 15, 73, 76, 116, or 119 of SEQ ID NO: 1, and the substitute amino acid is an amino acid comprising a side chain hydroxyl.

In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence with at least one amino acid substitution relative to the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1), the amino acid substitution is at one or more of positions 65, 66, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, or 80 of SEQ ID NO: 1, and the substitute amino acid(s) is/are imino acids. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence with only one amino acid substitution, relative to SEQ ID NO: 1, the amino acid substitution is at position 65, 66, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, or 80 of SEQ ID NO: 1, and the substitute amino acid is an amino acid comprising an imino acid.

In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence with at least one amino acid substitution relative to the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1), the amino acid substitution at one or more of positions 5, 9, 15, 76, 116, or 119 of SEQ ID NO: 1, and the substitute amino acid(s) is/are amino acids comprising a sulfur-containing side chain. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence with only one amino acid substitution, relative to SEQ ID NO: 1, the amino acid substitution is at position 5, 9, 15, 76, 116, or 119 of SEQ ID NO: 1, and the substitute amino acid is an amino acid comprising an amino acid comprising a sulfur-containing side chain.

In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence with at least one amino acid substitution, relative to the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1), wherein the at least one amino acid substitution is shown in Table A.

TABLE A Amino Acid position Exemplary of SEQ Examples of Substitute Amino Acids SEQ ID NO: 1 (in single letter code) ID NO: 5 A, D, E, G, H, I, K, L, M, N, Q, S, T, V, Y 38 8 A, D, E, G, N, S 39 9 A, D, E, G, H, I, K, L, M, N, Q, S, T, V, Y 40 11 D, S 41 12 A, D, E, N, S, T, V 42 13 D 43 14 A, D, S 44 15 A, E, I, M, N, Q, S, T, V 45 16 D, E 46 19 D 47 23 D 48 65 D, G, P 49 66 D, G, P 50 68 Q 51 69 D, G, P 52 70 E, G, P, Y, T 53 71 L 54 72 A, D, G, P 55 73 A, D, E, G, H, I, N, P, Q, S, V 56 75 D, G, P 58 76 A, D, E, G, H, I, K, L, M, N, P, Q, S, T, V, Y 59 77 D, G, P 60 78 D 61 79 D 62 80 G, P 63 109 K 64 110 D 65 112 D 66 113 K 67 116 A, D, E, I, K, L, M, N, S, T, V 68 117 D 69 119 A, D, E, M, N, Q, S, T 70 120 D 71 123 D 72

In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence with only one amino acid substitution, relative to SEQ ID NO: 1, and the amino acid substitution is one shown in Table A. In other embodiments, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence with two amino acid substitutions, relative to SEQ ID NO: 1, and the amino acid substitutions are two of those shown in Table A.

In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence shown in Table B.

TABLE B Amino Amino Amino Acid Substi- Amino Acid Substi- Acid position tute SEQ Acid position tute SEQ Substi- of SEQ Amino ID Substi- of SEQ Amino ID tution ID NO: 1 Acid NO: tution ID NO: 1 Acid NO: R5A 5 A 73 S70E 70 E 136 R5D 5 D 74 S70G 70 G 137 R5E 5 E 75 S70P 70 P 138 R5G 5 G 76 S70Y 70 Y 139 R5H 5 H 77 S70T 70 T 140 R5I 5 I 78 K72D 72 D 141 R5K 5 K 79 K72G 72 G 142 R5L 5 L 80 K72P 72 P 143 R5M 5 M 81 K72A 72 A 144 R5N 5 N 82 K73A 73 A 145 R5Q 5 Q 83 K73D 73 D 146 R5S 5 S 84 K73E 73 E 147 R5T 5 T 85 K73G 73 G 148 R5V 5 V 86 K73H 73 H 149 R5Y 5 Y 87 K73I 73 I 150 I8A 8 A 88 K73N 73 N 151 I8D 8 D 89 K73P 73 P 152 I8E 8 E 90 K73Q 73 Q 153 I8G 8 G 91 K73S 73 S 154 I8N 8 N 92 K73V 73 V 155 I8S 8 S 93 K75D 75 D 156 R9A 9 A 94 K75G 75 G 157 R9D 9 D 95 K75P 75 P 158 R9E 9 E 96 R76A 76 A 159 R9G 9 G 97 R76D 76 D 160 R9H 9 H 98 R76E 76 E 161 R9I 9 I 99 R76G 76 G 162 R9K 9 K 100 R76H 76 H 163 R9L 9 L 101 R76I 76 I 164 R9M 9 M 102 R76K 76 K 165 R9N 9 N 103 R76L 76 L 166 R9Q 9 Q 104 R76M 76 M 167 R9S 9 S 105 R76N 76 N 168 R9T 9 T 106 R76P 76 P 169 R9V 9 V 107 R76Q 76 Q 170 R9Y 9 Y 108 R76S 76 S 171 R11D 11 D 109 R76T 76 T 172 R11S 11 S 110 R76V 76 V 173 Q12A 12 A 111 R76Y 76 Y 174 Q12D 12 D 249 K77D 77 D 175 Q12E 12 E 250 K77G 77 G 176 Q12N 12 N 251 K77P 77 P 177 Q12S 12 S 252 P78D 78 D 61 Q12T 12 T 253 P79D 79 D 62 Q12V 12 V 254 S80G 80 G 178 L13D 13 D 112 S80P 80 P 179 I14A 14 A 114 E109K 109 K 64 I14D 14 D 115 R110D 110 D 65 I14S 14 S 116 K112D 112 D 66 D15A 15 A 117 S113K 113 K 67 D15E 15 E 118 Q116A 116 A 180 D15I 15 I 119 Q116D 116 D 181 D15M 15 M 120 Q116E 116 E 182 D15N 15 N 121 Q116I 116 I 183 D15Q 15 Q 122 Q116K 116 K 184 D15S 15 S 123 Q116L 116 L 185 D15T 15 T 283 Q116M 116 M 186 D15V 15 V 124 Q116N 116 N 187 I16D 16 D 125 Q116S 116 S 188 I16E 16 E 126 Q116T 116 T 189 Q19D 19 D 47 Q116V 116 V 190 Y23D 23 D 48 K117D 117 D 69 R65D 65 D 127 I119A 119 A 191 R65G 65 G 128 I119D 119 D 192 R65P 65 P 129 I119E 119 E 193 I66D 66 D 130 I119M 119 M 194 I66G 66 G 131 I119N 119 N 195 I66P 66 P 132 I119Q 119 Q 196 N68Q 68 Q 51 I119S 119 S 197 V69D 69 D 133 I119T 119 T 198 V69G 69 G 134 H120D 120 D 71 V69P 69 P 135 L123D 123 D 72

In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 47, 48, 51, 61, 62, 64-67, 69, 71-112, 114-198, 249-254, or 283. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence which is at least at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to one of SEQ ID NOs: 47, 48, 51, 61, 62, 64-67, 69, 71-112, 114-198, 249-254, or 283.

The present disclosure further provides IL-21 muteins comprising only two amino acid substitutions, relative to SEQ ID NO: 1, and the two amino acid substitutions occur at two of positions 5, 9, 15, 70, 71, 72, 73, and 76 of SEQ ID NO: 1. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises only two amino acid substitutions, relative to SEQ ID NO: 1, and the two substitutions occur at a pair of amino acid positions selected from the group consisting of: 5 and 76; 9 and 76; 15 and 70; 15 and 71; 15 and 72; 15 and 73; 70 and 73; 70 and 76; 71 and 73; 71 and 76; 72 and 73; 72 and 76; and 73 and 76. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 comprises any one of the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 199-208 and 210-212. In other aspects, the present disclosure further provides IL-21 muteins comprising only two amino acid substitutions, relative to SEQ ID NO: 1, and the two amino acid substitutions occur at two of positions 5, 9, 73, and 76 or SEQ ID NO: 1. In exemplary aspects, one of the substitutions occurs at position 76 of SEQ ID NO: 1. In exemplary aspects, the substitute amino acid at position 76 of SEQ ID NO: 1 is an aliphatic amino acid or an acidic amino acid. In exemplary aspects, the aliphatic amino acid is alanine. In exemplary aspects, the acidic amino acid is aspartic acid or glutamic acid. In exemplary aspects, the acidic amino acid is glutamic acid. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises a substitute amino acid at position 76 and an aliphatic amino acid or acidic amino acid at position 5, 9, or 73 of SEQ ID NO: 1. In exemplary aspects, the substitute amino acid at position 5, 9, or 73 is an aliphatic amino acid, an acidic amino acid, or an amino acid with a side chain amide. In exemplary aspects, the aliphatic amino acid is alanine, the acidic amino acid is glutamic acid, and the amino acid with a side chain amide is glutamine. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises a substitute amino acid at position 76 of SEQ ID NO: 1 (optionally, an aliphatic amino acid or an acidic amino acid) and a substitute amino acid at position 5 or 9 (according to the numbering of SEQ ID NO: 1).

In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure comprises an amino acid sequence of any one of the SEQ ID NOs: shown in Table C.

TABLE C 1^(st) 1^(st) 2^(nd) 2^(nd) Amino Acid Substi- Amino Acid Substi- position of tute position of tute SEQ Amino Acid SEQ ID Amino SEQ ID Amino ID Substitutions NO: 1 Acid NO: 1 Acid NO: R5E, R76E 5 E 76 E 239 R5E, R76A 5 E 76 A 238 R5A, R76A 5 A 76 A 236 R5Q, R76A 5 Q 76 A 240 R5A, R76E 5 A 76 E 237 R5Q, R76E 5 Q 76 E 241 R9E, R76E 9 E 76 E 245 R9A, R76E 9 A 76 E 243 R9E, R76A 9 E 76 A 244 R9A, R76A 9 A 76 A 242 D15N, S70T 15 N 70 T 213 D15N, I71L 15 N 71 L 214 D15N, K72A 15 N 72 A 215 D15N, K73A 15 N 73 A 216 S70T, K73Q 70 T 73 Q 219 S70T, R76A 70 T 76 A 246 S70T, R76D 70 T 76 D 247 S70T, R76E 70 T 76 E 248 I71L, K73Q 71 L 73 Q 217 I71L, R76A 71 L 76 A 227 I71L, R76D 71 L 76 D 228 I71L, R76E 71 L 76 E 229 K72A, K73Q 72 A 73 Q 218 K72A, R76A 72 A 76 A 230 K72A, R76D 72 A 76 D 231 K72A, R76E 72 A 76 E 232 K73A, R76A 73 A 76 A 233 K73A, R76D 73 A 76 D 234 K73A, R76E 73 A 76 E 235

In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 213-219 and 227-248. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 comprises an amino acid sequence which is at least at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to one of SEQ ID NOs: 213-219 and 227-248.

Peptide Length

The IL-21 muteins described herein may comprise a peptide backbone of any number of amino acids, i.e., can be of any peptide length. In some embodiments, the peptides described herein are the about same length as SEQ ID NO: 1, i.e., are 133 (±about 1 to about 20, ±about 1 to about 15, ±about 1 to about 10, or ±about 1 to about 5) amino acids in length. In some embodiments, the presently disclosed peptide is longer than 133 amino acids in length by virtue of being fused to another polypeptide chain, e.g., an antibody heavy chain comprising about 400 to about 600 amino acids, an antibody light chain comprising about 150 to about 300 amino acids, as further described herein.

Additional Peptide Modifications

In alternative or additional embodiments of the present disclosure, the IL-21 mutein is lipidated (e.g., myritoylated, palmitoylated), glycosylated, amidated, carboxylated, phosphorylated, esterified, acylated, acetylated, cyclized, or converted into an acid addition salt and/or optionally dimerized or polymerized, or conjugated, as further described herein.

Pharmaceutically Acceptable Salts

In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein is in the form of a salt, e.g., a pharmaceutically acceptable salt. Such salts can be prepared in situ during the final isolation and purification of the IL-21 mutein or separately prepared by reacting a free base function with a suitable acid. Examples of acids which can be employed to form pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salts include, for example, an inorganic acid, e.g., hydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, sulphuric acid, and phosphoric acid, and an organic acid, e.g., oxalic acid, maleic acid, succinic acid, and citric acid.

Representative acid addition salts include, but are not limited to acetate, adipate, alginate, citrate, aspartate, benzoate, benzenesulfonate, bisulfate, butyrate, camphorate, camphor sulfonate, digluconate, glycerophosphate, hemisulfate, heptanoate, hexanoate, fumarate, hydrochloride, hydrobromide, hydroiodide, 2-hydroxyethansulfonate (isothionate), lactate, maleate, methane sulfonate, nicotinate, 2-naphthalene sulfonate, oxalate, palmitoate, pectinate, persulfate, 3-phenylpropionate, picrate, pivalate, propionate, succinate, tartrate, thiocyanate, phosphate, glutamate, bicarbonate, p-toluenesulfonate, and undecanoate.

Basic addition salts also can be prepared in situ during the final isolation and purification of the IL-21 mutein, or by reacting a carboxylic acid-containing moiety with a suitable base such as the hydroxide, carbonate, or bicarbonate of a pharmaceutically acceptable metal cation or with ammonia or an organic primary, secondary, or tertiary amine. Pharmaceutically acceptable salts include, but are not limited to, cations based on alkali metals or alkaline earth metals such as lithium, sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and aluminum salts, and the like, and nontoxic quaternary ammonia and amine cations including ammonium, tetramethylammonium, tetraethylammonium, methylammonium, dimethylammonium, trimethylammonium, triethylammonium, diethylammonium, and ethylammonium, amongst others. Other representative organic amines useful for the formation of base addition salts include, for example, ethylenediamine, ethanolamine, diethanolamine, piperidine, piperazine, and the like.

Further, basic nitrogen-containing groups can be quaternized with such active agents as lower alkyl halides such as methyl, ethyl, propyl, and butyl chlorides, bromides, and iodides; long chain halides such as decyl, lauryl, myristyl, and stearyl chlorides, bromides, and iodides; arylalkyl halides like benzyl and phenethyl bromides and others. Water or oil-soluble or dispersible products are thereby obtained.

Purification

The IL-21 muteins of the present disclosure can be purified. The term “purified” as used herein means having been increased in purity, wherein “purity” is a relative term, and not to be necessarily construed as absolute purity. In exemplary aspects, the purity of the compound (e.g., in the composition) is at least or about 50%, at least or about 60%, at least or about 70%, at least or about 80%, at least or about 90%, at least or about 95%, or at least or about 98% or is about 100%.

Peptidomimetics

In some aspects, the IL-21 mutein is a peptidomimetic, or at least a portion of the mutein is peptidomimetic. Peptidomimetics as well as methods of making the same are known in the art. See, for example, Advances in Amino Acid Mimetics and Peptidomimetics, Volumes 1 and 2, ed., Abell, A., JAI Press Inc., Greenwich, C T, 2006. In some aspects, the peptidomimetic is a D-peptide peptidomimetic comprising D-isomer amino acids. In some aspects, the peptidomimetic is a peptoid in which the side chain of an amino acid is connected to the alpha nitrogen atom of the peptide backbone. Methods of making peptoids are known in the art. See, e.g., Zuckermann et al., JACS 114(26): 10646-10647 (1992) and Design, Synthesis, and Evaluation of Novel Peptoids, Fowler, Sarah, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2008. In some aspects, the peptidomimetic is a β-peptide comprising 0 amino acids which have their amino group bonded to the J-cargon rather than the alpha carbon. Methods of making J-peptides are known in the art. See, for example, Seebach et al., Helvetica Chimica Acta 79(4): 913-941 (1996).

Binding Characteristics

In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 muteins bind to the IL-21 receptor (IL-21R) with a reduced affinity, relative to the affinity of wild-type IL-21 for the IL-21R. In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 muteins bind to the human IL-21R with a reduced affinity, relative to the affinity of wild-type human IL-21 for the human IL-21R. In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 muteins bind to the alpha chain of the human IL-21R with a reduced affinity, relative to the affinity of wild-type human IL-21 for the alpha chain of the human IL-21R. In specific embodiments, IL-21 muteins which bind to the alpha chain of the human IL-21R with a reduced affinity, relative to the affinity of wild-type human IL-21 for the alpha chain of the human IL-21R contain one, two, or more substitutions located at an amino acid position selected from the group consisting of: 5, 8, 9, 12, 13, 16, 19, 23, 65, 66, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, and 80, according to the amino acid position numbering of SEQ ID NO: 1. Specific amino acid substitutions that can be made at such positions are discussed herein (see, e.g., Tables A, B, and C).

In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 muteins bind to the gamma chain of human IL-21R with a reduced affinity, relative to the affinity of wild-type human IL-21 for the gamma chain of the human IL-21R. In specific embodiments, IL-21 muteins which bind to the gamma chain of human IL-21R with a reduced affinity, relative to the affinity of wild-type human IL-21 for the gamma chain of the human IL-21R contain one, two, or more substitutions located at an amino acid position selected from the group consisting of: 11, 14, 15, 109, 110, 112, 113, 116, 117, 119, 120 and 123, according to the amino acid position numbering of SEQ ID NO: 1. Specific amino acid substitutions that can be made at such positions are discussed herein (see, e.g., Tables A, B, and C).

In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 muteins bind to the gamma chain of human IL-21R with a reduced affinity, relative to the affinity of wild-type human IL-21 for the alpha chain of the human IL-21R. In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 muteins bind to the cynomolgus monkey IL-21R with a reduced affinity, relative to the affinity of wild-type cynomolgus IL-21 for the cynomolgus IL-21R. In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 muteins bind to the alpha chain of the cynomolgus monkey IL-21R with a reduced affinity, relative to the affinity of wild-type cynomolgus IL-21 for the alpha chain of the cynomolgus IL-21R. In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 muteins bind to the gamma chain of cynomolgus monkey IL-21R with a reduced affinity, relative to the affinity of wild-type cynomolgus IL-21 for the gamma chain of the cynomolgus IL-21R. In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 muteins bind to the gamma chain of cynomolgus monkey IL-21R with a reduced affinity, relative to the affinity of wild-type cynomolgus IL-21 for the alpha chain of the cynomolgus IL-21R.

The IL-21 muteins provided herein bind to IL-21R in a non-covalent and reversible manner. In exemplary embodiments, the binding strength of the muteins to IL-21R may be described in terms of its affinity, a measure of the strength of interaction between the binding site of the mutein and the IL-21R. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 muteins provided herein have high-affinity for IL-21R and thus will bind a greater amount of IL-21R in a shorter period of time than low-affinity IL-21 muteins. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 muteins provided herein have low-affinity for IL-21R and thus will bind a lesser amount of IL-21R in a longer period of time than high-affinity IL-21 muteins. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein has an equilibrium association constant, KA, which is at least 10⁵ M⁻¹, at least 10⁶ M⁻¹, at least 10⁷ M⁻¹, at least 10⁸ M⁻¹, at least 10⁹ M⁻¹, or at least 10¹⁰ M⁻¹. As understood by the artisan of ordinary skill, KA can be influenced by factors including pH, temperature and buffer composition.

In exemplary embodiments, the binding strength of the IL-21 mutein to IL-21R may be described in terms of its sensitivity. K_(D) is the equilibrium dissociation constant, a ratio of k_(off)/k_(on), between the IL-21 mutein and IL-21R. K_(D) and KA are inversely related. The K_(D) value relates to the concentration of the mutein (the amount of mutein needed for a particular experiment) and so the lower the K_(D) value (lower concentration needed) the higher the affinity of the mutein. In exemplary aspects, the binding strength of the IL-21 mutein to IL-21R may be described in terms of K_(D). In exemplary aspects, the K_(D) of the IL-21 muteins provided herein is about 10⁻¹ M, about 10⁻² M, about 10⁻³ M, about 10⁻⁴ M, about 10⁻⁵ M, about 10⁻⁶ M, or less. In exemplary aspects, the K_(D) of the IL-21 muteins provided herein is micromolar, nanomolar, picomolar or femtomolar. In exemplary aspects, the K_(D) of the IL-21 muteins provided herein is within a range of about 10⁻⁴ to 10⁻⁶ M, or 10⁻⁷ to 10⁻⁹ M, or 10⁻¹⁰ to 10⁻¹² M, or 10⁻¹³ to 10⁻¹⁵ M. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein binds to the human IL-21R with a K_(D) that is greater than or is about 0.04 nM. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein binds to the human IL-21R with a K_(D) of about 0.01 nM to about 20 nM, 0.02 nM to 20 nM, 0.05 nM to 20 nM, 0.05 nM to 15 nM, 0.1 nM to 15 nM, 0.1 nM to 10 nM, 1 nM to 10 nM, or 5 nM to 10 nM. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein binds to the cynomolgus monkey IL-21R with a K_(D) that is greater than or is about 0.055 nM. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein binds to the cynomolgus monkey IL-21R with a K_(D) of about 0.01 nM to about 20 nM, 0.02 nM to 20 nM, 0.05 nM to 20 nM, 0.05 nM to 15 nM, 0.1 nM to 15 nM, 0.1 nM to 10 nM, 1 nM to 10 nM, or 5 nM to 10 nM.

In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 mutein exhibits a reduction in binding affinity for IL-21R α-chain. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein is a mutein (e.g., single or double) that exhibits about a 2-, 5-, 10-, 15-, 20-, 25-, 30-, 35-, 40-, 45-, 50-, 55-, 60-, 65-, 70-, 75-, 80-, 85-, 90-, 95-, 100-, 105-, 110-, 115-, 120-, 125-, 130-, 135-, 140-, 145-, 150-, 175-, 200-, 225-, 250-, 275-, 300-, 325-, 350-, 375-, 400-, 425-, 450-, 475-, 500-, 525-, 550-, 575-, 600-, 625-, 650-, 675-, 700-, 725-, 750-, 775-, 800-, 825-, 850-, 875-, 900-, 925-, 950-, 975-fold, 1000-fold, or more reduction in binding affinity for IL-21R α-chain. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein is a double mutein exhibiting the reduction in binding affinity for IL-21R α-chain.

In exemplary aspects, the above reduction in binding affinity of the IL-21 mutein (e.g., single or double mutein) results in a reduced affinity for IL-21R α-chain compared to the affinity of about 0.025 nM of wild-type human IL-21 for IL-21R α-chain. Accordingly, a 2-fold reduction in affinity as discussed above would result in an IL-21 mutein with an affinity of about 0.05 nM for IL-21R α-chain. Thus, in exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 mutein (e.g., single or double) has an affinity of about 0.05, 0.125, 0.25, 0.375, 0.5, 0.625, 0.75, 0.875, 1.0, 1.125, 1.25, 1.375, 1.5, 1.625, 1.75, 1.875, 2.0, 2.125, 2.25, 2.375, 2.5, 2.625, 2.75, 2.875, 3.0, 3.125, 3.25, 3.375, 3.5, 3.625, 3.75, 4.375, 5, 5.625, 6.25, 6.875, 7.5, 8.125, 8.75, 9.375, 10.0, 10.625, 11.25, 11.875, 12.5, 13.125, 13.75, 14.375, 15.0, 15.625, 16.25, 16.875, 17.5, 18.125, 18.75, 19.375, 20.0, 20.625, 21.25, 21.875, 22.5, 23.125, 23.75, 24.375, 25 nM, or more for IL-21R α-chain. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein is a double mutein exhibiting a reduced binding affinity for IL-21R α-chain.

In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 mutein exhibits a reduction in activity as measured by an in vitro STAT3 phosphorylation assay. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein is a mutein (e.g., single or double) that exhibits about a 2-, 5-, 10-, 15-, 20-, 25-, 30-, 35-, 40-, 45-, 50-, 55-, 60-, 65-, 70-, 75-, 80-, 85-, 90-, 95-, 100-, 105-, 110-, 115-, 120-, 125-, 130-, 135-, 140-, 145-, 150-, 175-, 200-, 225-, 250-, 275-, 300-, 325-, 350-, 375-, 400-, 425-, 450-, 475-, 500-, 525-, 550-, 575-, 600-, 625-, 650-, 675-, 700-, 725-, 750-, 775-, 800-, 825-, 850-, 875-, 900-, 925-, 950-, 975-fold, 1000-fold, or more reduction in activity as measured by a STAT3 phosphorylation assay. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein is a double mutein exhibiting the reduction in in activity as measured by a STAT3 phosphorylation assay.

IL-21 Mutein Conjugates

The present disclosure also provides conjugates comprising one or more of the IL-21 muteins of the present disclosure linked to a heterologous moiety. As used herein, the term “heterologous moiety” is synonymous with the term “conjugate moiety” and refers to any molecule (chemical or biochemical, naturally-occurring or non-coded) which is different from the IL-21 muteins described herein. Exemplary conjugate moieties that can be linked to any of the IL-21 muteins described herein include but are not limited to a heterologous peptide or polypeptide (including for example, an immunoglobulin or portion thereof (e.g., variable region, CDR, or Fc region)), a targeting agent, a diagnostic label such as a radioisotope, fluorophore or enzymatic label, a polymer including water soluble polymers, or other therapeutic or diagnostic agents. In some embodiments, a conjugate is provided comprising an IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure and an immunoglobulin. The conjugate in some embodiments comprises one or more of the IL-21 muteins described herein and one or more of: a peptide (which is distinct from the IL-21 muteins described herein), a polypeptide, a nucleic acid molecule, an antibody or fragment thereof, a polymer, a quantum dot, a small molecule, a toxin, a diagnostic agent, a carbohydrate, an amino acid.

In exemplary embodiments, the conjugate of the present disclosure comprises an IL-21 mutein as described herein and a heterologous moiety which is a polypeptide (e.g., a polypeptide distinct from any of the IL-21 muteins described herein), and the conjugate is a fusion polypeptide or fusion protein or a chimeric protein or chimeric polypeptide. Additional descriptions of such conjugates are provided herein under “Fusion proteins”.

In some embodiments, the heterologous moiety is attached via non-covalent or covalent bonding to the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure. In exemplary aspects, the linkage between the IL-21 mutein and the heterologous moiety is achieved via covalent chemical bonds, e.g., peptide bonds, disulfide bonds, and the like, or via physical forces, such as electrostatic, hydrogen, ionic, van der Waals, or hydrophobic or hydrophilic interactions. A variety of non-covalent coupling systems may be used, including, e.g., biotin-avidin, ligand/receptor, enzyme/substrate, nucleic acid/nucleic acid binding protein, lipid/lipid binding protein, cellular adhesion molecule partners; or any binding partners or fragments thereof which have affinity for each other.

The IL-21 mutein in exemplary embodiments is linked to a conjugate moiety via direct covalent linkage by reacting targeted amino acid residues of the IL-21 mutein with an organic derivatizing agent that is capable of reacting with selected side chains or the N- or C-terminal residues of these targeted amino acids. Reactive groups on the IL-21 mutein or conjugate moiety include, e.g., an aldehyde, amino, ester, thiol, α-haloacetyl, maleimido or hydrazino group. Derivatizing agents include, for example, maleimidobenzoyl sulfosuccinimide ester (conjugation through cysteine residues), N-hydroxysuccinimide (through lysine residues), glutaraldehyde, succinic anhydride or other agents known in the art. Alternatively, the conjugate moieties can be linked to the IL-21 mutein indirectly through intermediate carriers, such as polysaccharide or polypeptide carriers. Examples of polysaccharide carriers include aminodextran. Examples of suitable polypeptide carriers include polylysine, polyglutamic acid, polyaspartic acid, co-polymers thereof, and mixed polymers of these amino acids and others, e.g., serines, to confer desirable solubility properties on the resultant loaded carrier.

Cysteinyl residues are most commonly reacted with α-haloacetates (and corresponding amines), such as chloroacetic acid, chloroacetamide to give carboxymethyl or carboxyamidomethyl derivatives. Cysteinyl residues also are derivatized by reaction with bromotrifluoroacetone, alpha-bromo-β-(5-imidozoyl)propionic acid, chloroacetyl phosphate, N-alkylmaleimides, 3-nitro-2-pyridyl disulfide, methyl 2-pyridyl disulfide, p-chloromercuribenzoate, 2-chloromercuri-4-nitrophenol, or chloro-7-nitrobenzo-2-oxa-1,3-diazole.

Histidyl residues are derivatized by reaction with diethylpyrocarbonate at pH 5.5-7.0 because this agent is relatively specific for the histidyl side chain. Para-bromophenacyl bromide also is useful; the reaction is preferably performed in 0.1 M sodium cacodylate at pH 6.0.

Lysinyl and amino-terminal residues are reacted with succinic or other carboxylic acid anhydrides. Derivatization with these agents has the effect of reversing the charge of the lysinyl residues. Other suitable reagents for derivatizing alpha-amino-containing residues include imidoesters such as methyl picolinimidate, pyridoxal phosphate, pyridoxal, chloroborohydride, trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid, O-methylisourea, 2,4-pentanedione, and transaminase-catalyzed reaction with glyoxylate.

Arginyl residues are modified by reaction with one or several conventional reagents, among them phenylglyoxal, 2,3-butanedione, 1,2-cyclohexanedione, and ninhydrin. Derivatization of arginine residues requires that the reaction be performed in alkaline conditions because of the high pKa of the guanidine functional group. Furthermore, these reagents may react with the groups of lysine as well as the arginine epsilon-amino group.

The specific modification of tyrosyl residues may be made, with particular interest in introducing spectral labels into tyrosyl residues by reaction with aromatic diazonium compounds or tetranitromethane. Most commonly, N-acetylimidizole and tetranitromethane are used to form O-acetyl tyrosyl species and 3-nitro derivatives, respectively.

Carboxyl side groups (aspartyl or glutamyl) are selectively modified by reaction with carbodiimides (R—N═C═N—R′), where R and R′ are different alkyl groups, such as 1-cyclohexyl-3-(2-morpholinyl-4-ethyl) carbodiimide or 1-ethyl-3-(4-azonia-4,4-dimethylpentyl) carbodiimide. Furthermore, aspartyl and glutamyl residues are converted to asparaginyl and glutaminyl residues by reaction with ammonium ions.

Other modifications include hydroxylation of proline and lysine, phosphorylation of hydroxyl groups of seryl or threonyl residues, methylation of the alpha-amino groups of lysine, arginine, and histidine side chains (T. E. Creighton, Proteins: Structure and Molecular Properties, W.H. Freeman & Co., San Francisco, pp. 79-86 (1983)), deamidation of asparagine or glutamine, acetylation of the N-terminal amine, and/or amidation or esterification of the C-terminal carboxylic acid group.

Another type of covalent modification involves chemically or enzymatically coupling glycosides to the IL-21 mutein. Sugar(s) may be attached to (a) arginine and histidine, (b) free carboxyl groups, (c) free sulfhydryl groups such as those of cysteine, (d) free hydroxyl groups such as those of serine, threonine, or hydroxyproline, (e) aromatic residues such as those of tyrosine, or tryptophan, or (f) the amide group of glutamine. These methods are described in WO87/05330 published 11 Sep. 1987, and in Aplin and Wriston, CRC Crit. Rev. Biochem., pp. 259-306 (1981).

In exemplary aspects, the heterologous moiety is attached to the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure via a linker. In some aspects, the linker comprises a chain of atoms from 1 to about 60, or 1 to 30 atoms or longer, 2 to 5 atoms, 2 to 10 atoms, 5 to 10 atoms, or 10 to 20 atoms long. In some embodiments, the chain atoms are all carbon atoms. In some embodiments, the chain atoms in the backbone of the linker are selected from the group consisting of C, O, N, and S. Chain atoms and linkers may be selected according to their expected solubility (hydrophilicity) so as to provide a more soluble conjugate. In some embodiments, the linker provides a functional group that is subject to cleavage by an enzyme or other catalyst or hydrolytic conditions found in the target tissue or organ or cell. In some embodiments, the length of the linker is long enough to reduce the potential for steric hindrance. If the linker is a covalent bond or a peptidyl bond and the conjugate is a polypeptide, the entire conjugate can be a fusion protein. Such peptidyl linkers may be any length. Exemplary peptidyl linkers are from about 1 to 50 amino acids in length, 5 to 50, 3 to 5, 5 to 10, 5 to 15, or 10 to 30 amino acids in length, and are flexible or rigid. In exemplary aspects, the linker is a peptide comprising about 2 to about 20 amino acids. In exemplary aspects, the linker is a peptide comprising about 2 to about 15 amino acid, about 2 to about 10 amino acids, or about 2 to about 5 amino acids. Suitable peptide linkers are known in the art. See, e.g., Chen et al., Adv Drug Delivery Reviews 65(10): 1357-1369 (2013); Arai et al., Protein Eng Des Sel 14(8): 529-532 (2001); and Wriggers et al., Curr Trends in Peptide Science 80(6): 736-746 (2005). In exemplary aspects, the linker is a peptide comprising the amino acid sequence GGGGS (SEQ ID NO: 262).

Fusion Proteins

In exemplary embodiments, the IL-21 mutein is linked to a polypeptide which is distinct from any of the IL-21 muteins described herein, and the conjugate is a fusion polypeptide or fusion protein or a chimeric protein or chimeric polypeptide. Accordingly, the present disclosure provides fusion polypeptides or fusion proteins comprising an IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure and a heterologous polypeptide or peptide. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein of the present disclosure comprises an IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure linked to an antigen-binding protein. In exemplary aspects, the antigen-binding protein is an antibody or immunoglobulin, or an antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or an antibody protein product.

Collectively, antibodies form a family of plasma proteins known as immunoglobulins and comprise of immunoglobulin domains. (Janeway et al., Immunobiology: The Immune System in Health and Disease, 4^(th) ed., Elsevier Science Ltd./Garland Publishing, 1999. As used herein, the term “antibody” refers to a protein having a conventional immunoglobulin format, comprising heavy and light chains, and comprising variable and constant regions. For example, an antibody may be an IgG which is a “Y-shaped” structure of two identical pairs of polypeptide chains, each pair having one “light” (typically having a molecular weight of about 25 kDa) and one “heavy” chain (typically having a molecular weight of about 50-70 kDa). An antibody has a variable region and a constant region. In IgG formats, the variable region is generally about 100-110 or more amino acids, comprises three complementarity determining regions (CDRs), is primarily responsible for antigen recognition, and substantially varies among other antibodies that bind to different antigens. The constant region allows the antibody to recruit cells and molecules of the immune system. The variable region is made of the N-terminal regions of each light chain and heavy chain, while the constant region is made of the C-terminal portions of each of the heavy and light chains. (Janeway et al., “Structure of the Antibody Molecule and the Immunoglobulin Genes”, Immunobiology: The Immune System in Health and Disease, 4^(th) ed. Elsevier Science Ltd./Garland Publishing, (1999)).

The general structure and properties of CDRs of antibodies have been described in the art. Briefly, in an antibody scaffold, the CDRs are embedded within a framework in the heavy and light chain variable region where they constitute the regions largely responsible for antigen binding and recognition. A variable region typically comprises at least three heavy or light chain CDRs (Kabat et al., 1991, Sequences of Proteins of Immunological Interest, Public Health Service N.I.H., Bethesda, Md.; see also Chothia and Lesk, 1987, J. Mol. Biol. 196:901-917; Chothia et al., 1989, Nature 342: 877-883), within a framework region (designated framework regions 1-4, FR1, FR2, FR3, and FR4, by Kabat et al., 1991; see also Chothia and Lesk, 1987, supra).

Antibodies can comprise any constant region known in the art. Human light chains are classified as kappa and lambda light chains. Heavy chains are classified as mu, delta, gamma, alpha, or epsilon, and define the antibody's isotype as IgM, IgD, IgG, IgA, and IgE, respectively. IgG has several subclasses, including, but not limited to IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, and IgG4. IgM has subclasses, including, but not limited to, IgM1 and IgM2. Embodiments of the present disclosure include all such classes or isotypes of antibodies. The light chain constant region can be, for example, a kappa- or lambda-type light chain constant region, e.g., a human kappa- or lambda-type light chain constant region. The heavy chain constant region can be, for example, an alpha-, delta-, epsilon-, gamma-, or mu-type heavy chain constant regions, e.g., a human alpha-, delta-, epsilon-, gamma-, or mu-type heavy chain constant region. Accordingly, in exemplary embodiments, the antibody is an antibody of isotype IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, or IgM, including any one of IgG1, IgG2, IgG3 or IgG4.

The antibody can be a monoclonal antibody or a polyclonal antibody. In some embodiments, the antibody comprises a sequence that is substantially similar to a naturally-occurring antibody produced by a mammal, e.g., mouse, rabbit, goat, horse, chicken, hamster, human, and the like. In this regard, the antibody can be considered as a mammalian antibody, e.g., a mouse antibody, rabbit antibody, goat antibody, horse antibody, chicken antibody, hamster antibody, human antibody, and the like. In certain aspects, the antibody is a human antibody. In certain aspects, the antibody is a chimeric antibody or a humanized antibody. The term “chimeric antibody” refers to an antibody containing domains from two or more different antibodies. A chimeric antibody can, for example, contain the constant domains from one species and the variable domains from a second, or more generally, can contain stretches of amino acid sequence from at least two species. A chimeric antibody also can contain domains of two or more different antibodies within the same species. The term “humanized” when used in relation to antibodies refers to antibodies having at least CDR regions from a non-human source which are engineered to have a structure and immunological function more similar to true human antibodies than the original source antibodies. For example, humanizing can involve grafting a CDR from a non-human antibody, such as a mouse antibody, into a human antibody. Humanizing also can involve select amino acid substitutions to make a non-human sequence more similar to a human sequence.

An antibody can be cleaved into fragments by enzymes, such as, e.g., papain and pepsin. Papain cleaves an antibody to produce two Fab fragments and a single Fc fragment. Pepsin cleaves an antibody to produce a F(ab′)₂ fragment and a pFc′ fragment. In exemplary aspects of the present disclosure, the fusion protein of the present disclosure comprises an antigen binding antibody fragment. As used herein, the term “antigen binding antibody fragment refers to a portion of an antibody molecule that is capable of binding to the antigen of the antibody and is also known as “antigen-binding fragment” or “antigen-binding portion”. In exemplary instances, the antigen binding antibody fragment is a Fab fragment or a F(ab′)₂ fragment.

The architecture of antibodies has been exploited to create a growing range of alternative formats that span a molecular-weight range of at least about 12-150 kDa and has a valency (n) range from monomeric (n=1), to dimeric (n=2), to trimeric (n=3), to tetrameric (n=4), and potentially higher; such alternative formats are referred to herein as “antibody protein products”. Antibody protein products include those based on the full antibody structure and those that mimic antibody fragments which retain full antigen-binding capacity, e.g., scFvs, Fabs and VHH/VH (discussed below). The smallest antigen binding antibody fragment that retains its complete antigen binding site is the Fv fragment, which consists entirely of variable (V) regions. A soluble, flexible amino acid peptide linker is used to connect the V regions to a scFv (single chain fragment variable) fragment for stabilization of the molecule, or the constant (C) domains are added to the V regions to generate a Fab fragment [fragment, antigen-binding]. Both scFv and Fab fragments can be easily produced in host cells, e.g., prokaryotic host cells. Other antibody protein products include disulfide-bond stabilized scFv (ds-scFv), single chain Fab (scFab), as well as di- and multimeric antibody formats like dia-, tria- and tetra-bodies, or minibodies (miniAbs) that comprise different formats consisting of scFvs linked to oligomerization domains. The smallest fragments are VHH/VH of camelid heavy chain Abs as well as single domain Abs (sdAb). The building block that is most frequently used to create novel antibody formats is the single-chain variable (V)-domain antibody fragment (scFv), which comprises V domains from the heavy and light chain (VH and VL domain) linked by a peptide linker of ˜15 amino acid residues. A peptibody or peptide-Fc fusion is yet another antibody protein product. The structure of a peptibody consists of a biologically active peptide grafted onto an Fc domain. Peptibodies are well-described in the art. See, e.g., Shimamoto et al., mAbs 4(5): 586-591 (2012).

Other antibody protein products include a single chain antibody (SCA); a diabody; a triabody; a tetrabody; bispecific or trispecific antibodies, and the like. Bispecific antibodies can be divided into five major classes: BsIgG, appended IgG, BsAb fragments, bispecific fusion proteins and BsAb conjugates. See, e.g., Spiess et al., Molecular Immunology 67(2) Part A: 97-106 (2015).

In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein of the present disclosure comprises any one of these antibody protein products. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein of the present disclosure comprises any one of an scFv, Fab VHH/VH, Fv fragment, ds-scFv, scFab, dimeric antibody, multimeric antibody (e.g., a diabody, triabody, tetrabody), miniAb, peptibody VHH/VH of camelid heavy chain antibody, sdAb, diabody; a triabody; a tetrabody; a bispecific or trispecific antibody, BsIgG, appended IgG, BsAb fragment, bispecific fusion protein, and BsAb conjugate.

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein of the present disclosure comprises an antibody protein product in monomeric form, or polymeric, oligomeric, or multimeric form. In certain embodiments in which the antibody comprises two or more distinct antigen binding regions fragments, the antibody is considered bispecific, trispecific, or multi-specific, or bivalent, trivalent, or multivalent, depending on the number of distinct epitopes that are recognized and bound by the antibody.

In exemplary embodiments, the antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment or antibody protein product binds to a tumor antigen. In exemplary aspects, the tumor antigen is an antigen derived from a viral protein, an antigen derived from point mutations, or an antigen encoded by a cancer-germline gene. In exemplary aspects, the tumor antigen is p53, KRAS, NRAS, MAGEA, MAGEB, MAGEC, BAGE, GAGE, LAGE/NY-ESO1, SSX, tyrosinase, gp100/pme117, Melan-A/MART-1, gp75/TRP1, TRP2, CEA, RAGE-1, HER2/NEU, WT1. In exemplary aspects, the antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment or antibody protein product of the fusion protein of the present disclosure binds to an immunotherapy agent or is an immunotherapy agent, as described herein. In exemplary aspects, the antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment or antibody protein product of the fusion protein of the present disclosure binds to a cytokine, lymphokine, growth factor, or hematopoietic factor, as described herein.

In exemplary embodiments, the fusion protein of the present disclosure comprises a cytokine (e.g., an IL-21 mutein described herein) and an antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof or antibody protein product, which binds to a protein of the immune checkpoint pathway, a tumor antigen, a cytokine, lymphokine, growth factor, or other hematopoietic factor, including but not limited to any of those described herein. In exemplary embodiments, the fusion protein of the present disclosure comprises a cytokine (e.g., an IL-21 mutein described herein) and an antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof or antibody protein product, which binds to a protein of the immune checkpoint pathway selected from the group consisting of: CTLA-4, PD-1, PD-L1, PD-L2, B7-H3, B7-H4, CEACAM-1, TIGIT, LAG3, CD112, CD112R, CD96, TIM3, BTLA, or co-stimulatory receptor: ICOS, OX40, 41BB, CD27, GITR.

In other embodiments, the fusion protein of the present disclosure comprises a cytokine and an antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) which binds to a protein of the immune checkpoint pathway. Suitable cytokines include, for example, cytokines that enhance TH-1-type responses; and cytokines that activate STAT 1, 3, 4, or 5. In some embodiments, the cytokine is an interleukin. In other embodiments, the cytokine is an interleukin that enhances T cell activity such as, for example, IL-2, IL-7, IL-10, IL-12, IL-15, or IL-21. Such cytokines can be modified (e.g., via mutations) to attenuate their affinity for their respective receptor. Such muteins can exhibit improved safety profiles by reducing off-target and unwanted interactions. Thus, the cytokines can be modified to generate IL-2, IL-7, IL-10, IL-12, IL-15, or IL-21 muteins. In a particular embodiment, the cytokine is an IL-21 mutein described herein. Suitable antibodies (or antigen binding antibody fragments thereof) which binds to a protein of the immune checkpoint pathway include, for example, those which bind CTLA-4, PD-1, PD-L1, PD-L2, B7-H3, B7-H4, TIGIT, LAG3, CD112 TIM3, BTLA, or co-stimulatory receptor: ICOS, OX40, 41BB, or GITR. In a particular embodiment, the antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) binds to PD-1 (e.g., human PD-1).

In other embodiments, the fusion protein of the present disclosure is a multispecific fusion protein which comprises a cytokine, an antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof), and at least one additional targeting moiety. For example, the fusion protein of the present disclosure may be a trispecific fusion protein which comprises a cytokine, an antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof), and one additional targeting moiety.

In exemplary embodiments, the fusion protein of the present disclosure comprises an IL-21 mutein described herein and a PD-1 binding antagonist. The term “PD-1 binding antagonist” refers to a molecule that decreases, blocks, inhibits, abrogates or interferes with signal transduction resulting from the interaction of PD-1 with one or more of its binding partners, such as PD-L1, PD-L2. In some embodiments, the PD-1 binding antagonist is a molecule that inhibits the binding of PD-1 to one or more of its binding partners. In a specific aspect, the PD-1 binding antagonist inhibits the binding of PD-1 to PD-L1 and/or PD-L2. For example, PD-1 binding antagonists include anti-PD-1 antibodies, antigen binding antibody fragments thereof, immunoadhesins, fusion proteins, oligopeptides and other molecules that decrease, block, inhibit, abrogate or interfere with signal transduction resulting from the interaction of PD-1 with PD-L1 and/or PD-L2. In one embodiment, a PD-1 binding antagonist reduces the negative co-stimulatory signal mediated by or through cell surface proteins expressed on T lymphocytes mediated signaling through PD-1 so as render a dysfunctional T-cell less dysfunctional (e.g., enhancing effector responses to antigen recognition). In some embodiments, the PD-1 binding antagonist is an anti-PD-1 antibody. Examples of anti-PD-1 antibodies include nivolumab (BMS-936558), pembrolizumab (MK-3475), BMS 936558, BMS-936559, TSR-042 (Tesaro), ePDR001 (Novartis), and pidilizumab (CT-011). Additional specific examples of PD-1 binding antagonists are provided infra.

In exemplary embodiments, the PD-1 binding antagonist comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of an antigen-binding protein which binds to PD-1. In exemplary aspects, the antigen-binding protein is an antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or an antibody protein product, which binds to PD-1.

In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein of the present disclosure comprises an IL-21 mutein, as described herein, and an anti-PD-1 antibody (as described herein), an antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or an anti-PD-1 antibody protein product. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody is a monoclonal IgG. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product is a monovalent or bivalent. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product binds to human PD-1, which has the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 263. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product binds to cynomolgus PD-1, which has the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 264. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product binds to both human PD-1 and cynomolgus PD-1. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein of the present disclosure comprises an IL-21 mutein (as described herein) and an anti-PD-1 antibody (as described herein).

In exemplary embodiments, the binding strength of the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product to PD-1 may be described in terms of K_(D). In exemplary aspects, the K_(D) of the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product provided herein is about 10⁻¹ M, about 10⁻² M, about 10⁻³ M, about 10⁻⁴ M, about 10⁻⁵ M, about 10⁻⁶ M, about 10⁻⁷ M, about 10⁻⁸ M, about 10⁻⁹ M, or less. In exemplary aspects, the K_(D) of the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product provided herein is micromolar, nanomolar, picomolar or femtomolar. In exemplary aspects, the K_(D) of the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product provided herein is within a range of about 10⁻⁴ to 10⁻⁶ M, or 10⁻⁷ to 10⁻⁹ M, or 10⁻¹⁰ to 10⁻¹² M, or 10⁻¹³ to 10⁻¹⁵ M. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product has high affinity for human PD-1, cynomolgus PD-1, or both. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product has a K_(D) for human PD-1 of less than 100 pM, optionally, about 1 pM to about 50 pM. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product has a K_(D) for human PD-1 within about 1 pM to about 20 pM or less than about 10 pM. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, a antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product has a K_(D) for cynomolgus PD-1 of less than 100 pM, optionally, about 1 pM to about 75 pM. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product has a K_(D) for cynomolgus PD-1 within about 1 pM to about 20 pM or less than 10 pM.

In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product is a PD-1 binding antagonist that decreases, blocks, inhibits, abrogates or interferes with signal transduction resulting from the interaction of PD-1 with one or more of its binding partners, such as PD-L1, PD-L2. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product blocks PD-1 from binding to its ligand PD-L1 or PD-L2. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product inhibits at least 50% of the binding interactions between PD-1 and PD-L1 or PD-L2. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product exhibits at least about 50%, at least about 60%, or at least about 70% inhibition of the binding interaction between PD-1 and PD-L1 or PD-L2.

In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product inhibits PD-1-mediated production of IL-2 by T cells in a mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR). In exemplary aspects, the IC₅₀ of the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product in the MLR is within about 0.1 nM to about 5 nM. In exemplary aspects, the IC₅₀ of the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product in the MLR is less than 2 nM or less than 1 nM. In exemplary aspects, the IC₅₀ of the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product in the MLR is about 0.5 nM to about 2 nM.

In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises (a) a heavy chain (HC) complementarity-determining region (CDR) 1 amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NOs: 312, 322, 332, 342, 352, 362, 372, and 382, (see Table D) or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (b) an HC CDR2 amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NOs: 313, 323, 333, 343, 353, 363, 373, and 383, (see Table D) or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (c) an HC CDR3 amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NOs: 314, 324, 334, 344, 3545, 364, 374, and 384, (see Table D) or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (d) a light chain (LC) CDR1 amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of: 315, 325, 335, 345, 355, 365, 375, and 385, (see Table D) or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (e) an LC CDR2 amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of: 316, 326, 336, 346, 356, 366, 376, and 386, (see Table D) or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (f) an LC CDR3 amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of: 317, 327, 337, 347, 357, 367, 377, and 387, (see Table D) or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; or (g) a combination of any two, three, four, five, or six of (a)-(f). In some embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises such CDRs.

TABLE D 20A2 20C1 22D4 20C1.006 20C1.009 20A2.003 22D4.006 22D4.017 HC CDR1 312 322 332 342 352 362 372 382 HC CDR2 313 323 333 343 353 363 373 383 HC CDR3 314 324 334 344 354 364 374 384 LC CDR1 315 325 335 345 355 365 375 385 LC CDR2 316 326 336 346 356 366 376 386 LC CDR3 317 327 337 347 357 367 377 387 Number represents the relevant SEQ ID NO.

In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises a LC CDR1 amino acid sequence, a LC CDR2 amino acid sequence, and a LC CDR3 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D and at least 1 or 2 of the HC CDR amino acid sequences set forth in Table D. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises a HC CDR1 amino acid sequence, a HC CDR2 amino acid sequence, and a HC CDR3 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D and at least 1 or 2 of the LC CDR amino acid sequences set forth in Table D. In some embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises such CDRs.

In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises 3, 4, 5, or all 6 of the amino acid sequences designated by the SEQ ID NOs: in a single column of Table D. In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises each of the LC CDR amino acid sequences designated by the SEQ ID NOs: of a single column of Table D and at least 1 or 2 of the HC CDR amino acid sequences designated by the SEQ ID NOs: in the same single column or another single column of Table D. In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises each of the HC CDR amino acid sequences designated by the SEQ ID NOs: of a single column of Table D and at least 1 or 2 of the LC CDR amino acid sequences designated by the SEQ ID NOs: in the same single column or another single column of Table D. In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises six CDR amino acid sequences selected from the group consisting of: (a) SEQ ID NOs: 312-317; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 322-327; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 332-337; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 342-347; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 352-357; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 362-367; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 372-377; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 382-387. In specific embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises all 6 of the CDR amino acid sequences in Table D for any one of the 20A2, 20C1, 22D4, 20C1.006, 20C1.009, 20A2.003, 22D4.006, or 22D4.017 antibodies. In some embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises such CDRs.

In exemplary instances, the amino acid sequences of Table D are separated by at least one or more (e.g., at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more) intervening amino acid(s). In exemplary instances, there are about 10 to about 20 amino acids between the sequences of the LC CDR1 and the LC CDR2 and about 25 to about 40 amino acids between the sequences of the LC CDR2 and the LC CDR3. In exemplary instances, there are about 14 to about 16 amino acids between the sequences of the LC CDR1 and the LC CDR2 and about 30 to about 35 amino acids between the sequences of LC CDR2 and the LC CDR3. In exemplary instances, there are about 10 to about 20 amino acids between the sequences of the HC CDR1 and HC CDR2 and about 25 to about 40 amino acids between the sequences of the HC CDR2 and the HC CDR3. In exemplary instances, there are about 14 to about 16 amino acids between the sequences of the HC CDR1 and HC CDR2 and about 30 to about 35 amino acids between the sequences of the HC CDR2 and HC CDR3.

In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises (a) a heavy chain variable region amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of: 318, 328, 338, 348, 358, 368, 378, and 388, (see Table E) or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; or (b) a light chain variable region amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of: 319, 329, 339, 349, 359, 369, 379, and 389, (see Table E) or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; or (c) both (a) and (b). In some embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises such variable regions.

TABLE E 20A2 20C1 22D4 20C1.006 20C1.009 20A2.003 22D4.006 22D4.017 HC VARIABLE 318 328 338 348 358 368 378 388 LC VARIABLE 319 329 339 349 359 369 379 389 HC (full length) 320 330 340 350 360 370 380 390 LC (full length) 321 331 341 351 361 371 381 391 Number represents the relevant SEQ ID NO.

In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises a pair of amino acid sequences selected from the group consisting of: (a) SEQ ID NOs: 318 and 319; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 328 and 329; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 338 and 339; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 348 and 349; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 358 and 359; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 368 and 369; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 378 and 379; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 388 and 389.

In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises (a) a heavy chain amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of: 320, 330, 340, 350, 360, 370, 380, and 390, (see Table E) or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; or (b) a light chain amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of: 321, 331, 341, 351, 361, 371, 381, and 391, (see Table E) or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; or (c) both (a) and (b). In some embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises such variable regions.

In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises a pair of amino acid sequences selected from the group consisting of: (a) SEQ ID NOs: 320 and 321; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 330 and 331; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 340 and 341; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 350 and 351; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 360 and 361; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 370 and 371; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 380 and 381; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 390 and 391. In some embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises such regions.

In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) heavy chain amino acid sequences comprise a set of charge pair mutations, as described herein. In particular aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) heavy chain amino acid sequences comprise charge pair mutations selected from V1, V103, and V131 charge pair mutations.

In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises an amino acid sequence which is similar to an above-referenced amino acid sequence, yet the antigen-binding protein substantially retains its biological function, e.g., its ability to bind to PD-1, e.g., human PD-1, cynomolgus PD-1, or to decrease, block, inhibit, abrogate or interfere with signal transduction resulting from the interaction of PD-1 with one or more of its binding partners, such as PD-L1 or PD-L2.

In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises an amino acid sequence which differs by only 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or more amino acids, relative to the above-referenced amino acid sequence(s). In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises a variant sequence of the referenced sequence, which variant sequence differs by only one or two amino acids, relative to the referenced sequence. In exemplary aspects, the antigen-binding protein comprises one or more amino acid substitutions that occur outside of the CDRs, e.g., the one or more amino acid substitutions occur within the framework region(s) of the heavy or light chain. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises one or more amino acid substitutions yet the antigen-binding protein retains the amino acid sequences of the six CDRs. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises an amino acid sequence having only 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or more conservative amino acid substitutions, relative to the above-referenced amino acid sequence(s).

In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises an amino acid sequence which has greater than or about 30%, greater than or about 50%, or greater than or about 70% sequence identity to the above-referenced amino acid sequence(s). In exemplary aspects, the antigen-binding protein comprises an amino acid sequence which has at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90% or has greater than 90% sequence identity to the above-referenced amino acid sequence. In exemplary aspects, the antigen-binding protein comprises an amino acid sequence that has at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90% or has greater than 90% sequence identity along the full-length of the above-referenced amino acid sequence. In exemplary aspects, the antigen-binding protein comprises an amino acid sequence having at least 95%, 96%, 97%, 98% or 99% sequence identity along the full-length of the above-referenced amino acid sequence.

In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises a variant sequence of the referenced sequence, which variant sequence has at least or about 70% sequence identity, relative to the above-referenced sequence. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises a variant sequence of the referenced sequence, which variant sequence has at least or about 80% sequence identity, relative to the above-referenced sequence. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises a variant sequence of the referenced sequence, which variant sequence has at least or about 90% sequence identity, relative to the above-referenced sequence. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises a variant sequence of the referenced sequence, which variant sequence has at least or about 95% sequence identity, relative to the above-referenced sequence.

In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises one, two, three, four, or five sequences of the SEQ ID NOs. in a single column of Table D and at least one variant sequence having at least or about 70% (e.g., at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%) sequence identity to any of SEQ ID NOs: 312-387. In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises one, two, three, four, or five sequences of a set of sequences selected from: (a) SEQ ID NOs: 312-317; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 322-327; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 332-337; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 342-347; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 352-357; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 362-367; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 372-377; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 382-387, wherein the antibody or fragment thereof further comprises at least one variant sequence having at least or about 70% (e.g., at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%) sequence identity to at least one of the sequences of the set. For instance, in exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises four sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 312-317, namely, SEQ ID NOs: 312-315, wherein the antibody or fragment thereof comprises two variant sequences: one variant sequence having at least or about 70% (e.g., at least about 80%, at least about 90%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 316 and another variant sequence having at least or about 70% (e.g., at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 317. In some embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises such regions.

In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) product comprises a pair of variant sequences having at least or about 70% (e.g., at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%) sequence identity to any of SEQ ID NOs: 318, 319, 328, 329, 338, 339, 348, 349, 358, 359, 368, 369, 378, 379, 388, and 389. In exemplary instances, the antibody or fragment thereof comprises a pair of variant sequences which have at least or about 70% (e.g., at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%) sequence identity to (a) SEQ ID NOs: 318 and 319; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 328 and 329; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 338 and 339; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 348 and 349; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 358 and 359; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 368 and 369; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 378 and 379; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 388 and 389. In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises a pair of sequences: one sequence of Table E and another sequence which is a variant sequence having at least or about 70% (e.g., at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%) sequence identity to any of SEQ ID NOs: 318, 319, 328, 329, 338, 339, 348, 349, 358, 359, 368, 369, 378, 379, 388, and 389. In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises a pair of sequences: one sequence selected from (a) SEQ ID NOs: 318 and 319; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 328 and 329; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 338 and 339; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 348 and 349; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 358 and 359; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 368 and 369; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 378 and 379; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 388 and 389, and another sequence which is a variant sequence having at least or about 70% (e.g., at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%) sequence identity to a sequence of (a)-(u). For instance, in exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 318 and further comprises a variant sequence having at least or about 70% (e.g., at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO 319. In some embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises such regions.

In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof comprises a pair of variant sequences having at least or about 70% (e.g., at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%) sequence identity to any of SEQ ID NOs: 320, 321, 330, 331, 340, 341, 350, 351, 360, 361, 370, 371, 380, 381, 390, and 391. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises a pair of variant sequences which have at least or about 70% (e.g., at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%) sequence identity to (a) SEQ ID NOs: 320 and 321; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 330 and 331; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 340 and 341; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 350 and 351; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 360 and 361; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 370 and 371; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 380 and 381; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 390 and 391. In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises a pair of sequences: one sequence of Table E and another sequence which is a variant sequence having at least or about 70% (e.g., at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%) sequence identity to any of SEQ ID NOs: 320, 321, 330, 331, 340, 341, 350, 351, 360, 361, 370, 371, 380, 381, 390, and 391. In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises a pair of sequences: one sequence selected from (a) SEQ ID NOs: 320 and 321; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 330 and 331; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 340 and 341; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 350 and 351; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 360 and 361; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 370 and 371; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 380 and 381; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 390 and 391, and another sequence which is a variant sequence having at least or about 70% (e.g., at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%) sequence identity to a sequence of (a)-(u). For instance, in exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 320 and further comprises a variant sequence having at least or about 70% (e.g., at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO 321. In some embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises such regions.

In additional exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises one or more amino acid modifications, relative to the naturally-occurring counterpart, in order to improve half-life/stability or to render the antibody more suitable for expression/manufacturability (e.g., as a fusion protein with the IL-21 mutein). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody is designed to prevent or reduce interaction between the anti-PD-1 antibody and Fc receptors. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody is a Stable Effector Functionless (SEFL) antibody comprising a constant region that lacks the ability to interact with Fcγ receptors. SEFL antibodies are known in the art. See, e.g., Liu et al., J Biol Chem 292: 1876-1883 (2016); and Jacobsen et al., J. Biol. Chem. 292: 1865-1875 (2017). In exemplary aspects, the SEFL antibody comprises one or more of the following mutations, numbered according to the EU system: L242C, A287C, R292C, N297G, V302C, L306C, and/or K334C. In exemplary aspects, the SEFL antibody comprises N297G. In exemplary aspects, the SEFL antibody comprises A287C, N297G, and L306C. In other exemplary aspects, the SEFL antibody comprises R292C, N297G, and V302C (i.e., SEFL2-2).

The anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product may comprise other half-life extension (HLE) modifications. In exemplary instances, the HLE modification occurs in the heavy chain constant region and comprises one or more of the following mutations, numbered according to the EU system: M252Y, S254T, and T256E. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises one or two of M252Y, S254T, and T256E. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises all three of M252Y, S254T, and T256E. In exemplary aspects, the heavy chain constant region comprises an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 545 or SEQ ID NO: 547 or SEQ ID NO: 549 or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 545 or SEQ ID NO: 547 or SEQ ID NO: 549. In exemplary instances, the HLE modification occurs in the heavy chain constant region and comprises one or more of the following mutations, numbered according to the EU system: L309D, Q311H, and N434S. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises one, two or all three of L309D, Q311H, and N434S. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises all three of L309D, Q311H, and N434S. In exemplary aspects, the heavy chain constant region comprises an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 544 or SEQ ID NO: 546 or SEQ ID NO: 548 or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 544 or SEQ ID NO: 546 or SEQ ID NO: 548.

In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises SEFL2-2 modifications and HLE modifications. In some instances, the HLE modifications comprise one or two or all three of M252Y, S254T, and T256E. In exemplary aspects, the heavy chain constant region comprises an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 551 or SEQ ID NO: 553 or SEQ ID NO: 555 or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 551 or SEQ ID NO: 553 or SEQ ID NO: 555. In some instances, the HLE modifications comprise one or two or all three of L309D, Q311H, and N434S. In exemplary aspects, the heavy chain constant region comprises an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 550 or SEQ ID NO: 552 or SEQ ID NO: 554 or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 550 or SEQ ID NO: 552 or SEQ ID NO: 554. In exemplary aspects, the heavy chain additionally comprises charge pair mutations as described below.

In eukaryotic cells, two types of glycosylation reactions occur: (1) N-linked glycosylation, in which glycans are attached to the asparagine of the recognition sequence Asn-X-Thr/Ser, where “X” is any amino acid except proline, and (2) O-linked glycosylation in which glycans are attached to serine or threonine. N-linked glycosylation begins in the Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER), where a complex set of reactions result in the attachment of a core glycan structure made essentially of two GlcNAc residues and three Man residues. The glycan complex formed in the ER is modified by action of enzymes in the Golgi apparatus. If the saccharide is relatively inaccessible to the enzymes, it typically stays in the original HM form. If enzymes can access the saccharide, then many of the Man residues are cleaved off and the saccharide is further modified, resulting in the complex type N-glycans structure. For example, mannosidase-1 located in the cis-Golgi, can cleave or hydrolyze a HM glycan, while fucosyltransferase FUT-8, located in the medial-Golgi, fucosylates the glycan (Hanrue Imai-Nishiya (2007), BMC Biotechnology, 7:84). In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody is N-glycosylated, e.g., comprises one or more sugar moieties (e.g., glycans, saccharides) covalently attached to a specific amino acid of the heavy chain. In alternative aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody is not glycosylated or does not comprise any sugar moieties (e.g., glycans, saccharides) covalently attached to a specific amino acid of the heavy chain.

In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region comprising an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 284, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 284. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region comprising an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 284, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 284, and further comprises a linker. In exemplary instances, the linker comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 262. Thus, in some exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 287, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 287. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region comprising an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 284, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 284, with the C-terminal Lys clipped or removed. In this regard, in some aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region lacking the C-terminal Lys and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 285, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 285. In general, the C-terminal lysine of an antibody undergoes cleavage by carboxypeptidase during expression. A heavy chain constant region lacking the C-terminal Lys advantageously prevents carboxypeptidase to act on the heavy chain of the anti-PD-1 antibody. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region lacking the C-terminal Lys and further comprises a linker. In exemplary instances, the linker comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 262. Thus, in some exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 286, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 286. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region comprising an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 284, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 284, and with one or more SEFL mutations which prevent or reduce interaction between the anti-PD-1 antibody and Fc receptors, including but not limited to L242C, A287C, R292C, N297G, V302C, L306C, and/or K334C. In exemplary aspects, the SEFL mutations are SEFL2-2 mutations: R292C, N297G, and V302C, such that the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 265, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 265. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region with SEFL2-2 mutations and with the C-terminal Lys clipped or removed. Such a heavy chain constant region may comprise the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 266. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region with SEFL2-2 mutations, the C-terminal Lys clipped or removed, and a linker. Such a heavy chain constant region may comprise the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 267. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region with SEFL2-2 mutations and a linker without the C-terminal Lys clipped. Such a heavy chain constant region may comprise the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 282.

In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein is attached to the Fc of the anti-PD-1 antibody. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein is attached to one of the two heavy chains of the antibody. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein is attached to the C-terminus of one of the two heavy chains of the antibody.

In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises only one IL-21 mutein (i.e., the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer). In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein is attached to the C-terminus of one of the two heavy chains of the antibody. In exemplary aspects, when the fusion protein comprises only one IL-21 mutein, the Fc of the antibody comprises modifications designed to drive heterodimerization of the two heavy chains (one heavy chain fused to the IL-21 mutein and one heavy chain lacking the IL-21 mutein). Such modifications include Fc mutations such as knobs-into-holes, DuoBodies, Azymetric, charge pair, HA-TF, SEEDbody, and modifications with differential protein A affinity. See, e.g., Spiess et al., Molecular Immunology, 67(2, Part A), 2015, pp. 95-106. Knobs-into-holes mutations include T366W in the first heavy chain, and T366S, L368A, and/or Y407V in the second heavy chain. See, e.g., Ridgway et al., Protein Eng., 9 (1996), pp. 617-621; and Atwell et al., J. Mol. Biol., 270 (1997), pp. 26-35. DuoBody mutations include F405L in the first heavy chain and K409R in the second heavy chain. See, e.g., Labrijn et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A., 110 (2013), pp. 5145-5150. Azymetric mutations include T350V, L351Y, F405A, and/or Y407V in the first heavy chain, and T350V, T366L, K392L, and/or T394W in the second heavy chain. See, e.g., Von Kreudenstein et al., mAbs, 5 (2013), pp. 646-654. HA-TF mutations include S364H and/or F405A in the first heavy chain, and Y349T and/or T394F in the second heavy chain. See, e.g., Moore et al., mAbs, 3 (2011), pp. 546-557. SEEDbody mutations include IgG/A chimera mutations in the first heavy chain and IgG/A chimera mutations in the second heavy chain. See, e.g., Davis et al., Protein Eng. Des. Sel., 23 (2010), pp. 195-202. Differential protein A affinity mutations include H435R in one heavy chain and no mutations in the other heavy chain. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 8,586,713.

In a particular example, the mutations are charge pair mutations. The following are examples of such charge pair mutations, numbered according to the EU system. Charge pair mutations include K409D in the first heavy chain and D399K in the second heavy chain; K392D in the first heavy chain and E356K in the second heavy chain; or both K409D and K392D in the first heavy chain and both D399K and E356K in the second heavy chain (the latter denoted as “V1” herein). See, e.g., Gunasekaran et al., J Biol Chem 285: 19637-19646 (2010). In another particular example, the chair pair mutations include K439D, K392D, and K409D in the first heavy chain; and E356K and D399K in the second heavy chain (denoted as “V103” herein). In yet another particular example, the charge pair mutations include K360E, K370E, K392E, and K409D in the first heavy chain; and E357K and D399K in the second heavy chain (denoted as “V131” herein). Charge pair mutations may also include K370D in the first heavy chain and E357K in the second heavy chain; or all three of K409D, K392D, and K370D in the first heavy chain and all three of D399K, E357K, and E356K in the second heavy chain (the latter denoted as “V4” herein). Additional charge pair mutations also include D221E, P228E, and/or L368E in the first heavy chain and D221R, P228R, and/or K409R in the second heavy chain. See, e.g., Strop et al., J. Mol. Biol., 420 (2012), pp. 204-219.

In embodiments where the fusion protein comprises only one IL-21 mutein (i.e., the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer) and the heavy chain contains the V1 charge pair mutations, the IL-21 mutein may be attached to the heavy chain containing the K409D and K392D mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NO: 294, 296, or 298), or the heavy chain containing the D399K and E356K mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NO: 295, 297, or 299. In a specific embodiment, the IL-21 mutein is attached to the heavy chain containing the D399K and E356K mutations.

In embodiments where the fusion protein comprises only one IL-21 mutein (i.e., the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer) and the heavy chain contains the V4 charge pair mutations, the IL-21 mutein may be attached to the heavy chain containing the K409D, K392D, and K370D mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NO: 288, 290, or 292), or the heavy chain containing the D399K, E357K, and E356K mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NO: 289, 291. or 293). In a specific embodiment, the IL-21 mutein is attached to the heavy chain containing the D399K, E357K, and E356K mutations.

In embodiments where the fusion protein comprises only one IL-21 mutein (i.e., the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer) and the heavy chain contains the V103 charge pair mutations, the IL-21 mutein may be attached to the heavy chain containing the K439D, K392D, and K409D mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NO: 472, 474, or 476), or the heavy chain containing the E356K and D399K mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NO: 473, 475, or 477). In a specific embodiment, the IL-21 mutein is attached to the heavy chain containing the E356K and D399K mutations.

In embodiments where the fusion protein comprises only one IL-21 mutein (i.e., the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer) and the heavy chain contains the V131 charge pair mutations, the IL-21 mutein may be attached to the heavy chain containing the K360E, K370E, K392E, and K409D mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NO: 478, 480, or 482), or the heavy chain containing the E357K and D399K mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NO: 479, 481, or 483). In a specific embodiment, the IL-21 mutein is attached to the heavy chain containing the E357K and D399K mutations.

Thus, in exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises a set of charge pair mutations, as described herein. In particular aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises charge pair mutations selected from V1, V103, and V131 charge pair mutations.

In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region comprising an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 284, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 284, with one or more charge pair mutations, e.g., the V1, V4, V103, or V131 charge pair mutations. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region comprising an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 284, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 284, with V1 charge pair mutations, wherein a first heavy chain constant region comprises K409 and K392D mutations and a second heavy chain constant region comprises D399K and E356K mutations. Such a first heavy chain constant region may comprise the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 294 and such a second heavy chain constant region may comprise the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 295. Such first and second heavy chain constant regions may have the C-terminal Lys clipped or removed such that the first and second heavy chain constant regions may comprise SEQ ID NO: 296 and 297, respectively. Such first and second heavy chain constant regions may have the C-terminal Lys clipped or removed and a linker such that the first and second heavy chain constant regions may comprise SEQ ID NO: 298 and 299, respectively. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region comprising V1 charge pair mutations and SEFL2-2 mutations. Such a first heavy chain constant region comprising the V1 charge pair mutations and SEFL2-2 mutations may comprise a sequence of SEQ ID NO: 306 and such a second heavy chain constant region comprising the V1 charge pair mutations and SEFL2-2 mutations may comprise a sequence of SEQ ID NO: 307. Additional variations of such first and second heavy chains, including, e.g., heavy chains with the C-terminal Lys clipped or removed (SEQ ID NOs: 308 and 309) and with the C-terminal Lys clipped or removed with a linker (SEQ ID NOs: 310 and 311) are contemplated.

In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region comprising an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 284, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 284, with V4 charge pair mutations, wherein a first heavy chain constant region comprises K409, K392D, and K370D mutations and a second heavy chain constant region comprises D399K, E356K, and E357K mutations. Such a first heavy chain constant region may comprise the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 288 and such a second heavy chain constant region may comprise the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 289. Such first and second heavy chain constant regions may have the C-terminal Lys clipped or removed such that the first and second heavy chain constant regions may comprise SEQ ID NO: 290 and 291, respectively. Such first and second heavy chain constant regions may have the C-terminal Lys clipped or removed and a linker such that the first and second heavy chain constant regions may comprise SEQ ID NO: 292 and 293, respectively. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region comprising V4 charge pair mutations and SEFL2-2 mutations. Such a first heavy chain constant region comprising the V4 charge pair mutations and SEFL2-2 mutations may comprise a sequence of SEQ ID NO: 300 and such a second heavy chain constant region comprising the V4 charge pair mutations and SEFL2-2 mutations may comprise a sequence of SEQ ID NO: 301. Additional variations of such first and second heavy chains, including, e.g., heavy chains with the C-terminal Lys clipped (SEQ ID NOs: 302 and 303) and with the C-terminal Lys clipped or removed with a linker (SEQ ID NOs: 304 and 305) are contemplated.

In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region comprising an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 284, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 284, with V103 charge pair mutations, wherein a first heavy chain constant region comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 484 and a second heavy chain constant region comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 485. Such first and second heavy chain constant regions may have the C-terminal Lys clipped or removed such that the first and second heavy chain constant regions may comprise SEQ ID NO: 486 and 487, respectively. Such first and second heavy chain constant regions may have the C-terminal Lys clipped or removed and a linker such that the first and second heavy chain constant regions may comprise SEQ ID NO: 488 and 489, respectively. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region comprising V103 charge pair mutations and SEFL2-2 mutations. Such a first heavy chain constant region comprising the V103 charge pair mutations and SEFL2-2 mutations may comprise a sequence of SEQ ID NO: 484 and such a second heavy chain constant region comprising the V103 charge pair mutations and SEFL2-2 mutations may comprise a sequence of SEQ ID NO: 485. Additional variations of such first and second heavy chains, including, e.g., heavy chains with the C-terminal Lys clipped (SEQ ID NOs: 486 and 487) and with the C-terminal Lys clipped or removed with a linker (SEQ ID NOs: 488 and 489) are contemplated.

In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region comprising an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 284, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 284, with V131 charge pair mutations, wherein a first heavy chain constant region comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 478 and a second heavy chain constant region comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 479. Such first and second heavy chain constant regions may have the C-terminal Lys clipped or removed such that the first and second heavy chain constant regions may comprise SEQ ID NO: 480 and 481, respectively. Such first and second heavy chain constant regions may have the C-terminal Lys clipped or removed and a linker such that the first and second heavy chain constant regions may comprise SEQ ID NO: 482 and 483, respectively. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain constant region comprising V131 charge pair mutations and SEFL2-2 mutations. Such a first heavy chain constant region comprising the V131 charge pair mutations and SEFL2-2 mutations may comprise a sequence of SEQ ID NO: 490 and such a second heavy chain constant region comprising the V131 charge pair mutations and SEFL2-2 mutations may comprise a sequence of SEQ ID NO: 491. Additional variations of such first and second heavy chains, including, e.g., heavy chains with the C-terminal Lys clipped (SEQ ID NOs: 492 and 493) and with the C-terminal Lys clipped or removed with a linker (SEQ ID NOs: 494 and 495) are contemplated.

In alternative aspects, the fusion protein comprises more than one IL-21 mutein (i.e., the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein dimer or IL-21 mutein multimer). In exemplary alternative aspects, the fusion protein comprises 2, 3, or 4 (or more) IL-21 muteins. In exemplary aspects, when the fusion protein comprises more than one IL-21 mutein, each IL-21 mutein comprises the same structure, e.g., the same amino acid sequence. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 homodimer or IL-21 homomultimer. In alternative aspects, each IL-21 mutein of the fusion protein comprises a different structure, e.g., a different amino acid sequence. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 heterodimer or IL-21 heteromultimer. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises two IL-21 muteins, wherein the first IL-21 mutein is linked to the C-terminus of the first antibody heavy chain, and the second IL-21 mutein is linked to the C-terminus of the second antibody heavy chain. In exemplary aspects, each IL-21 mutein has the same amino acid sequence (e.g., is an IL-21 mutein homodimer). In exemplary aspects, the first IL-21 mutein has a different amino acid sequence relative to the second IL-21 mutein (e.g., is an IL-21 mutein heterodimer).

With regard to the fusion proteins comprising one or more IL-21 muteins, each IL-21 mutein may be attached to one of the heavy chains of the antibody with or without a linker. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein is attached to the C-terminus of one of the antibody heavy chains via a linker and the linker is a peptide. In exemplary instances, the peptide comprises the amino acid sequence of GGGGS (SEQ ID NO: 262). In alternative aspects, the IL-21 mutein is directly attached to the C-terminus of one of the heavy chains of the antibody without a linker.

In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises only one IL-21 mutein which is directly attached to the C-terminus of one of the heavy chains of the anti-PD-1 antibody. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid substitution listed in Table 4 or a sequence of a SEQ ID NO: listed in Table 4. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid substitution listed in Table 5 or a sequence of a SEQ ID NO: listed in Table 5. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises the amino acid substitutions listed in Table 7 or a sequence of a SEQ ID NO: listed in Table 7. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises the amino acid substitutions listed in any one of Tables 6 and 8-14 or a sequence of a SEQ ID NO: listed in these Tables. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence of any of SEQ ID NOs: 159, 161, 238, 241, 242, or 244. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein is directly attached to the anti-PD-1 antibody and does not comprise a peptide linker.

In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises two IL-21 muteins, each of which is directly attached to the C-terminus of a heavy chain of the anti-PD-1 antibody and each of which have the same amino acid sequence. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid substitution listed in Table 4 or a sequence of a SEQ ID NO: listed in Table 4. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid substitution listed in Table 5 or a sequence of a SEQ ID NO: listed in Table 5. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises the amino acid substitutions listed in Table 7 or a sequence of a SEQ ID NO: listed in Table 7. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises the amino acid substitutions listed in any one of Tables 6 and 8-14 or a sequence of a SEQ ID NO: listed in these Tables. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence of any of SEQ ID NOs: 159, 161, 237, 238, 241, and 244. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein is directly attached to the anti-PD-1 antibody and does not comprise a peptide linker.

In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises an amino acid sequence of an antibody constant region described herein fused to an amino acid sequence of any IL-21 mutein described herein. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises an amino acid sequence of an antibody constant region described herein, which is not glycosylated, fused to an amino acid sequence of any IL-21 mutein described herein. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a constant region comprising an amino acid sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 265-267, 282, 284-311, 472-495, and 544-555, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 265-267, 282, 284-311, 472-495, and 544-555, fused to an IL-21 mutein comprising any one of SEQ ID NOs: 3-21, 23-56, 58-112, 114-208, 210-222, 224-255, and 283, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 3-21, 23-56, 58-112, 114-208, 210-222, 224-255, and 283. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises an amino acid sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 268-281, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 268-281.

In exemplary embodiments, the fusion protein comprises a construct as described in FIG. 4A, 4B, or 4C. In exemplary embodiments, the fusion protein comprises (i) an anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) described herein; and (ii) an IL-21 mutein described herein. In additional exemplary embodiments, the fusion protein comprises (i) an anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) described herein; (ii) a charge pair mutation described herein; and (iii) an IL-21 mutein described herein (see, e.g., FIG. 4C). In other exemplary embodiments, the fusion protein comprises (i) an anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) described herein, wherein the heavy chain sequences of said anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) do not comprise a C-terminal lysine; (ii) a charge pair mutation described herein; and (iii) an IL-21 mutein described herein.

In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises (a) a heavy chain (HC) complementarity-determining region (CDR) 1 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NOs: 312, 322, 332, 342, 352, 362, 372, and 382, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (b) an HC CDR2 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NOs: 313, 323, 333, 343, 353, 363, 373, and 383, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (c) an HC CDR3 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NOs: 314, 324, 334, 344, 3545, 364, 374, and 384, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (d) a light chain (LC) CDR1 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: 315, 325, 335, 345, 355, 365, 375, and 385, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (e) an LC CDR2 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: 316, 326, 336, 346, 356, 366, 376, and 386, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (f) an LC CDR3 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: 317, 327, 337, 347, 357, 367, 377, and 387, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; or (g) a combination of any two or more of (a)-(f). In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises a LC CDR1 amino acid sequence, a LC CDR2 amino acid sequence, and a LC CDR3 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D and at least 1 or 2 of the HC CDR amino acid sequences set forth in Table D. In exemplary embodiments, the antigen-binding protein comprises 3, 4, 5, or 6 of the amino acid sequences designated by the SEQ ID NOs: in a single column of Table D. In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises six CDR amino acid sequences selected from the group consisting of: (a) SEQ ID NOs: 312-317; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 322-327; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 332-337; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 342-347; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 352-357; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 362-367; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 372-377; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 382-387. In some embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises such regions.

In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises (a) a heavy chain variable region amino acid sequence set forth in in Table E or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: 318, 328, 338, 348, 358, 368, 378, and 388, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; or (b) a light chain variable region amino acid sequence set forth in Table E or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: 319, 329, 339, 349, 359, 369, 379, and 389, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; or (c) both (a) and (b). In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody (or antigen binding antibody fragment thereof) comprises a pair of amino acid sequences selected from the group consisting of: (a) SEQ ID NOs: 318 and 319; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 328 and 329; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 338 and 339; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 348 and 349; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 358 and 359; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 368 and 369; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 378 and 379; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 388 and 389. In exemplary instances, the antibody constant region comprises an amino acid sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 265-267, 282, and 284-311, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 265-267, 282, and 284-311, fused to an IL-21 mutein comprising any one of SEQ ID NOs: 3-21, 23-56, 58-112, 114-208, 210-222, 224-255, and 283, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 3-21, 23-56, 58-112, 114-208, 210-222, 224-255, and 283. In exemplary embodiments, the antigen-binding protein comprises a pair of amino acid sequences selected from the group consisting of: (a) SEQ ID NOs: 320 and 321; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 330 and 331; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 340 and 341; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 350 and 351; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 360 and 361; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 370 and 371; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 380 and 381; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 390 and 391. In exemplary embodiments, the fusion protein comprises (I) a pair of amino acid sequences selected from the group consisting of: (a) SEQ ID NOs: 320 and 321; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 330 and 331; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 340 and 341; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 350 and 351; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 360 and 361; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 370 and 371; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 380 and 381; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 390 and 391, and (II) an IL-21 mutein comprising any one of SEQ ID NOs: 3-21, 23-56, 58-112, 114-208, 210-222, 224-255, and 283, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 3-21, 23-56, 58-112, 114-208, 210-222, 224-255, and 283.

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer as shown in FIG. 4A, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 355-357), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 352-354), and each heavy chain comprises a constant region sequence comprising SEFL2-2 mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NO: 265 or 266), wherein each of the two IL-21 muteins comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76A (i.e., each comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 244). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 358 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 359. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 360 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 361. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 361 and 562 or SEQ ID NOs: 361 and 563. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 361) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 562). In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 361) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 563).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer as shown in FIG. 4A, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 355-357), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 352-354), and each heavy chain comprises a constant region sequence comprising SEFL2-2 mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NO: 265 or 266), wherein each of the two IL-21 muteins comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76E (i.e., each comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 245). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 358 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 359. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 360 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 361. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 361 and 564 or SEQ ID NOs: 361 and 565. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 361) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 564). In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 361) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 565).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer as shown in FIG. 4B, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 355-357), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 352-354), and each heavy chain comprises a constant region sequence comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and a linker (e.g., SEQ ID NO: 267), wherein each of the two IL-21 muteins comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76A (i.e., each comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 244). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 358 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 359. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 360 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 361. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 361 and 566. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 361) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 566).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer as shown in FIG. 4B, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 355-357), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 352-354), and each heavy chain comprises a constant region sequence comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and a linker (e.g., SEQ ID NO: 267), wherein each of the two IL-21 muteins comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76E (i.e., each comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 245). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 358 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 359. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 360 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 361. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 361 and 567. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 361) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 567).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 355-357), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 352-354), and a pair of heavy chains comprising constant region sequences comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and V1 charge pair mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NOs: 306 and 307 or SEQ ID NOs: 308 and 309), wherein the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to the heavy chain which contains the E356K and D399K V1 charge pair mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to a heavy chain comprising any one of SEQ ID NOs: 309), and wherein the IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76A (i.e., comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 244). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 358 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 359. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 360 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 361. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 361 and 568. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 361) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 568 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 574).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 355-357), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 352-354), and a pair of heavy chains comprising constant region sequences comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and V103 charge pair mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NOs: 484 and 485 or SEQ ID NOs: 486 and 487), wherein the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to the heavy chain which contains the E356K and D399K V103 charge pair mutations (e.g. i.e., the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NOs: 487), and wherein the IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76A (i.e., comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 244). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 358 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 359. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 360 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 361. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 361 and 569. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 361) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 569 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 575).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 355-357), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 352-354), and a pair of heavy chains comprising constant region sequences comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and V131 charge pair mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NOs: 490 and 491 or SEQ ID NOs: 492 and 493), wherein the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to the heavy chain which contains the E357K and D399K V131 charge pair mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NOs: 493), and wherein the IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76A (i.e., comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 244). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 358 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 359. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 360 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 361. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 361 and 570. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 361) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 570 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 576).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 355-357), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 352-354), and a pair of heavy chains comprising constant region sequences comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and V1 charge pair mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NOs: 306 and 307 or SEQ ID NOs: 308 and 309), wherein the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to the heavy chain which contains the E356K and D399K V1 charge pair mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NOs: 309), and wherein the IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76E (i.e., comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 245). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 358 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 359. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 360 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 361. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 361 and 571. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 361) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 571 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 574).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 355-357), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 352-354), and a pair of heavy chains comprising constant region sequences comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and V103 charge pair mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NOs: 484 and 485 or SEQ ID NOs: 486 and 487), wherein the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to the heavy chain which contains the E356K and D399K V103 charge pair mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NOs: 487), and wherein the IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76E (i.e., comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 245). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 358 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 359. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 360 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 361. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 361 and 572. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 361) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 572 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 575).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 355-357), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 352-354), and a pair of heavy chains comprising constant region sequences comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and V131 charge pair mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NOs: 490 and 491 or SEQ ID NOs: 492 and 493), wherein the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to the heavy chain which contains the E357K and D399K V1 charge pair mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NOs: 493), and wherein the IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76E (i.e., comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 245). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 358 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 359. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 360 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 361. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 361 and 573. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 573 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 576).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer as shown in FIG. 4A, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 385-387), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 382-384), and each heavy chain comprises a constant region sequence comprising SEFL2-2 mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NO: 265 or 266), wherein each of the two IL-21 muteins comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76A (i.e., each comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 244). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 388 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 389. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 390 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 391. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 389 and 496 or SEQ ID NOs: 389 and 519. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 496). In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 519).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer as shown in FIG. 4A, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 385-387), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 382-384), and each heavy chain comprises a constant region sequence comprising SEFL2-2 mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NO: 265 or 266), wherein each of the two IL-21 muteins comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76E (i.e., each comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 245). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 388 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 389. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 390 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 391. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 389 and 497 or SEQ ID NOs: 389 and 498. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and the fused heavy chain-IL-21 mutein comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 497). In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 498).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer as shown in FIG. 4B, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 385-387), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 382-384), and each heavy chain comprises a constant region sequence comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and a linker (e.g., SEQ ID NO: 267), wherein each of the two IL-21 muteins comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76A (i.e., each comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 244). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 388 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 389. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 390 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 391. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 389 and 499. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 499).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer as shown in FIG. 4B, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 385-387), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 382-384), and each heavy chain comprises a constant region sequence comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and a linker (e.g., SEQ ID NO: 267), wherein each of the two IL-21 muteins comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76E (i.e., each comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 245). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 388 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 389. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 390 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 391. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 389 and 500. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 500).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 385-387), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 382-384), and a pair of heavy chains comprising constant region sequences comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and V1 charge pair mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NOs: 306 and 307 or SEQ ID NOs: 308 and 309), wherein the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to the heavy chain which contains the E356K and D399K V1 charge pair mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NOs: 309), and wherein the IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76A (i.e., comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 244). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 388 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 389. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 390 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 391. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 389 and 501. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 501, and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 556).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 385-387), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 382-384), and a pair of heavy chains comprising constant region sequences comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and V103 charge pair mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NOs: 484 and 485 or SEQ ID NOs: 486 and 487), wherein the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to the heavy chain which contains the E356K and D399K V103 charge pair mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NOs: 487), and wherein the IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76A (i.e., comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 244). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 388 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 389. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 390 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 391. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 389 and 502. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 502 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 557).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 385-387), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 382-384), and a pair of heavy chains comprising constant region sequences comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and V131 charge pair mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NOs: 490 and 491 or SEQ ID NOs: 492 and 493), wherein the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to the heavy chain which contains the E357K and D399K V131 charge pair mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NOs: 493), and wherein the IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76A (i.e., comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 244). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 388 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 389. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 390 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 391. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 389 and 503. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 503 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 558).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 385-387), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 382-384), and a pair of heavy chains comprising constant region sequences comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and V1 charge pair mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NOs: 306 and 307 or SEQ ID NOs: 308 and 309), wherein the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to the heavy chain which contains the E356K and D399K V1 charge pair mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NOs: 309), and wherein the IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76E (i.e., comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 245). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 388 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 389. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 390 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 391. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 389 and 504. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 504 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 556).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 385-387), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 382-384), and a pair of heavy chains comprising constant region sequences comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and V103 charge pair mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NOs: 484 and 485 or SEQ ID NOs: 486 and 487), wherein the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to the heavy chain which contains the E356K and D399K V103 charge pair mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NOs: 487), and wherein the IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76E (i.e., comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 245). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 388 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 389. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 390 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 391. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 389 and 505. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 505 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 557).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 385-387), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 382-384), and a pair of heavy chains comprising constant region sequences comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and V131 charge pair mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NOs: 490 and 491 or SEQ ID NOs: 492 and 493), wherein the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to the heavy chain which contains the E357K and D399K V131 charge pair mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to a heavy chain comprising any one of SEQ ID NOs: 493), and wherein the IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76E (i.e., comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 245). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 388 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 389. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 390 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 391. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 389 and 506. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 506 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 558).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer as shown in FIG. 4A, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 365-367), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 362-364), and each heavy chain comprises a constant region sequence comprising SEFL2-2 mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NO: 265 or 266), wherein each of the two IL-21 muteins comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76A (i.e., each comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 244). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 368 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 369. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 370 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 371. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 369 and 507 or SEQ ID NOs: 369 and 508. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 507). In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 508).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer as shown in FIG. 4A, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 365-367), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 362-364), and each heavy chain comprises a constant region sequence comprising SEFL2-2 mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NO: 265 or 266), wherein each of the two IL-21 muteins comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76E (i.e., each comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 245). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 368 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 369. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 370 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 371. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 369 and 509 or SEQ ID NOs: 369 and 510. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 509). In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 510).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer as shown in FIG. 4B, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 365-367), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 362-364), and each heavy chain comprises a constant region sequence comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and a linker (e.g., SEQ ID NO: 267), wherein each of the two IL-21 muteins comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76A (i.e., each comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 244). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 368 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 369. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 370 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 371. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 369 and 511. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 511).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer as shown in FIG. 4B, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 365-367), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 362-364), and each heavy chain comprises a constant region sequence comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and a linker (e.g., SEQ ID NO: 267), wherein each of the two IL-21 muteins comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76E (i.e., each comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 245). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 368 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 369. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 370 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 371. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 369 and 512. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 512).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 365-367), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 362-364), and a pair of heavy chains comprising constant region sequences comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and V1 charge pair mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NOs: 306 and 307 or SEQ ID NOs: 308 and 309), wherein the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to the heavy chain which contains the E356K and D399K V1 charge pair mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to a heavy chain comprising any one of SEQ ID NOs: 309), and wherein the IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76A (i.e., comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 244). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 368 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 369. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 370 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 371. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 369 and 513. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 513 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 559).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 365-367), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 362-364), and a pair of heavy chains comprising constant region sequences comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and V103 charge pair mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NOs: 484 and 485 or SEQ ID NOs: 486 and 487), wherein the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to the heavy chain which contains the E356K and D399K V103 charge pair mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NOs: 487), and wherein the IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76A (i.e., comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 244). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 368 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 369. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 370 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 371. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 369 and 514. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 514 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 560).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 365-367), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 362-364), and a pair of heavy chains comprising constant region sequences comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and V131 charge pair mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NOs: 490 and 491 or SEQ ID NOs: 492 and 493), wherein the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to the heavy chain which contains the E357K and D399K V131 charge pair mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NOs: 493), and wherein the IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76A (i.e., comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 244). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 368 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 369. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 370 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 371. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 369 and 515. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 515 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 561).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 365-367), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 362-364), and a pair of heavy chains comprising constant region sequences comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and V1 charge pair mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NOs: 306 and 307 or SEQ ID NOs: 308 and 309), wherein the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to the heavy chain which contains the E356K and D399K V1 charge pair mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NOs: 309), and wherein the IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76E (i.e., comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 245). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 368 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 369. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 370 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 371. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 369 and 516. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 516 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 559).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 365-367), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 362-364), and a pair of heavy chains comprising constant region sequences comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and V103 charge pair mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NOs: 484 and 485 or SEQ ID NOs: 486 and 487), wherein the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to the heavy chain which contains the E356K and D399K V103 charge pair mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NOs: 487), and wherein the IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76E (i.e., comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 245). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 368 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 369. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 370 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 371. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 369 and 517. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 517 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 560).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 365-367), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 362-364), and a pair of heavy chains comprising constant region sequences comprising SEFL2-2 mutations and V131 charge pair mutations (e.g., SEQ ID NOs: 490 and 491 or SEQ ID NOs: 492 and 493), wherein the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to the heavy chain which contains the E357K and D399K V1 charge pair mutations (e.g., the IL-21 mutein monomer is attached to a heavy chain comprising SEQ ID NOs: 493), and wherein the IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions R9E and R76E (i.e., comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 245). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 368 and a light chain variable region of SEQ ID NO: 369. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy chain of SEQ ID NO: 370 or the light chain of SEQ ID NO: 371. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 369 and 518. In exemplary aspects, the fusion protein comprises a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 518 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 561).

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein homodimer as shown in FIG. 4A or 4B, or IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, and an anti-PD-1 antibody comprising the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 365-367), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 362-364), and a heavy chain constant region sequence comprising any one of SEQ ID NOs 544-555. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein homodimer as shown in FIG. 4A or 4B, or IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 365-367), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20A2.003 (SEQ ID NOs: 362-364), and a heavy chain constant region sequence of SEQ ID NO: 525 or 527.

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein homodimer as shown in FIG. 4A or 4B, or IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 385-387), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 382-384), and a heavy chain constant region sequence comprising any one of SEQ ID NOs 544-555. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein homodimer as shown in FIG. 4A or 4B, or IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 385-387), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 22D4.017 (SEQ ID NOs: 382-384), and a heavy chain constant region sequence of SEQ ID NO 529 or 531.

In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein homodimer as shown in FIG. 4A or 4B, or IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 355-357), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 352-354), and a heavy chain constant region sequence comprising any one of SEQ ID NOs 544-555. In exemplary instances, the fusion protein comprises an IL-21 mutein homodimer as shown in FIG. 4A or 4B, or IL-21 mutein monomer as shown in FIG. 4C, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the three light chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 355-357), the three heavy chain CDRs of antibody 20C1.009 (SEQ ID NOs: 352-354), and a heavy chain constant region sequence of SEQ ID NO 521 or 523.

Antigen-Binding Proteins

The present disclosure provides PD-1 antigen binding proteins. In exemplary aspects, the PD-1 antigen-binding protein is an anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product described herein. In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises (a) a heavy chain (HC) complementarity-determining region (CDR) 1 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NOs: 312, 322, 332, 342, 352, 362, 372, and 382, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (b) an HC CDR2 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NOs: 313, 323, 333, 343, 353, 363, 373, and 383, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (c) an HC CDR3 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NOs: 314, 324, 334, 344, 3545, 364, 374, and 384, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (d) a light chain (LC) CDR1 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: 315, 325, 335, 345, 355, 365, 375, and 385, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (e) an LC CDR2 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: 316, 326, 336, 346, 356, 366, 376, and 386, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (f) an LC CDR3 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: 317, 327, 337, 347, 357, 367, 377, and 387, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; or (g) a combination of any two or more of (a)-(f). In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises a LC CDR1 amino acid sequence, a LC CDR2 amino acid sequence, and a LC CDR3 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D and at least 1 or 2 of the HC CDR amino acid sequences set forth in Table D. In exemplary embodiments, the antigen-binding protein comprises at least 3, 4, or 5 of the amino acid sequences designated by the SEQ ID NOs: in a single column of Table D.

In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises six CDR amino acid sequences selected from the group consisting of: (a) SEQ ID NOs: 312-317; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 322-327; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 332-337; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 342-347; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 352-357; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 362-367; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 372-377; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 382-387. In exemplary instances, the amino acid sequences of Table D are separated by at least one or more (e.g., at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more) intervening amino acid(s). In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises (a) a heavy chain variable region amino acid sequence set forth in in Table E or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: 318, 328, 338, 348, 358, 368, 378, and 388, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; or (b) a light chain variable region amino acid sequence set forth in Table E or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: 319, 329, 339, 349, 359, 369, 379, and 389, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; or (c) both (a) and (b). In exemplary embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises a pair of amino acid sequences selected from the group consisting of: (a) SEQ ID NOs: 318 and 319; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 328 and 329; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 338 and 339; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 348 and 349; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 358 and 359; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 368 and 369; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 378 and 379; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 388 and 389. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product comprises (I) a pair of amino acid sequences selected from the group consisting of: (a) SEQ ID NOs: 318 and 319; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 328 and 329; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 338 and 339; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 348 and 349; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 358 and 359; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 368 and 369; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 378 and 379; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 388 and 389 and (II) a constant region comprising any one of SEQ ID NOs: 265-267, 282, 284-311, 472-495, and 544-555. In exemplary embodiments, the antigen-binding protein comprises a pair of amino acid sequences selected from the group consisting of: (a) SEQ ID NOs: 320 and 321; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 330 and 331; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 340 and 341; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 350 and 351; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 360 and 361; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 370 and 371; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 380 and 381; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 390 and 391. In exemplary embodiments, the antigen-binding protein comprises an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to one or more of the SEQ ID NOs: above.

In some embodiments, the antigen binding protein described above is an anti-PD-1 antibody, or an antigen binding antibody fragment thereof.

The present disclosure additionally provides conjugates comprising a PD-1 antigen binding protein described herein and a heterologous moiety. The heterologous moiety may be any molecule which is different from the PD-1 antigen-binding protein described herein. The heterologous moiety, in exemplary aspects, is a heterologous peptide or polypeptide, a targeting agent, a diagnostic label, a polymer, a nucleic acid, a quantum dot, a small molecule, a toxin, a carbohydrate, an amino acid, or other therapeutic or diagnostic agent. In exemplary aspects, the heterologous moiety is an IL-21 mutein as described herein.

The present disclosure additionally provides fusion proteins comprising a PD-1 antigen binding protein described herein and a heterologous polypeptide or peptide. In exemplary aspects, the heterologous polypeptide is an IL-21 mutein as described herein.

Methods of Making Antibodies

Suitable methods of making antibodies, antigen binding antibody fragments, and antibody protein products are known in the art. For instance, standard hybridoma methods for producing antibodies are described in, e.g., Harlow and Lane (eds.), Antibodies: A Laboratory Manual, CSH Press (1988), and C A. Janeway et al. (eds.), Immunobiology, 5^(th) Ed., Garland Publishing, New York, N.Y. (2001)). An exemplary method of preparing anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibodies or the present disclosure is provided herein in EXAMPLES.

Depending on the host species, various adjuvants can be used to increase the immunological response leading to greater antibody production by the host. Such adjuvants include but are not limited to Freund's, mineral gels such as aluminum hydroxide, and surface active substances such as lysolecithin, pluronic polyols, polyanions, peptides, oil emulsions, keyhole limpet hemocyanin, and dinitrophenol. BCG (bacilli Calmette-Guerin) and Corynebacterium parvum are potentially useful human adjuvants.

Other methods of antibody production are summarized in Table F.

TABLE F Technique Exemplary references EBV-hybridoma methods and Bacteriophage Haskard and Archer, J. Immunol. Methods, 74(2), 361-67 vector expression systems (1984), Roder et al., Methods Enzymol., 121, 140-67 (1986), and Huse et al., Science, 246, 1275-81 (1989)). methods of producing antibodies in non-human U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,545,806, 5,569,825, and 5,714,352, and U.S. animals Patent Application Publication No. 2002/0197266 inducing in vivo production in the lymphocyte Orlandi et al (Proc Natl Acad Sci 86: 3833-3837; 1989), and population or by screening recombinant Winter G and Milstein C (Nature 349: 293-299, 1991). immunoglobulin libraries or panels of highly specific binding reagents methods of producing recombinant proteins Protein production and purification” Nat Methods 5(2): 135- 146 (2008). Phage display Janeway et al., supra, Huse et al., supra, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,265,150). Related methods also are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,403,484; U.S. Pat. No. 5,571,698; U.S. Pat. No. 5,837,500; U.S. Pat. No. 5,702,892. The techniques described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,780,279; U.S. Pat. No. 5,821,047; U.S. Pat. No. 5,824,520; U.S. Pat. No. 5,855,885; U.S. Pat. No. 5,858,657; U.S. Pat. No. 5,871,907; U.S. Pat. No. 5,969,108; U.S. Pat. No. 6,057,098; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,225,447 Antibodies can be produced by transgenic mice U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,545,806 and 5,569,825, and Janeway et al., supra.

Methods of testing antibodies for the ability to bind to PD-1 regardless of how the antibodies are produced are known in the art and include any antibody-antigen binding assay, such as, for example, radioimmunoassay (RIA), ELISA, Western blot, immunoprecipitation, SPR, and competitive inhibition assays (see, e.g., Janeway et al., infra, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2002/0197266, and the above section relating to competition assays). Other binding assays, e.g., competitive binding assays or competition assays, which test the ability of an antibody to compete with a second antibody for binding to an antigen, or to an epitope thereof, are known in the art and can be used to test the ability of an antibody to bind to PD-1. See, e.g., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US20140178905, Chand et al., Biologicals 46: 168-171 (2017); Liu et al., Anal Biochem 525: 89-91 (2017); and Goolia et al., J Vet Diagn Invest 29(2): 250-253 (2017). Also, other methods of comparing two antibodies are known in the art, and include, for example, surface plasmon resonance (SPR). SPR can be used to determine the binding constants of the antibody and second antibody and the two binding constants can be compared.

Heterologous Moieties: Polymers, Carbohydrates, Lipids and Therapeutic Agents

In exemplary embodiments, the conjugate of the present disclosure comprises an IL-21 mutein linked to a polymer. In some embodiments, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of: polyamides, polycarbonates, polyalkylenes and derivatives thereof including, polyalkylene glycols, polyalkylene oxides, polyalkylene terepthalates, polymers of acrylic and methacrylic esters, including poly(methyl methacrylate), poly(ethyl methacrylate), poly(butylmethacrylate), poly(isobutyl methacrylate), poly(hexylmethacrylate), poly(isodecyl methacrylate), poly(lauryl methacrylate), poly(phenyl methacrylate), poly(methyl acrylate), poly(isopropyl acrylate), poly(isobutyl acrylate), and poly(octadecyl acrylate), polyvinyl polymers including polyvinyl alcohols, polyvinyl ethers, polyvinyl esters, polyvinyl halides, poly(vinyl acetate), and polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyglycolides, polysiloxanes, polyurethanes and co-polymers thereof, celluloses including alkyl cellulose, hydroxyalkyl celluloses, cellulose ethers, cellulose esters, nitro celluloses, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxy-propyl methyl cellulose, hydroxybutyl methyl cellulose, cellulose acetate, cellulose propionate, cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose acetate phthalate, carboxylethyl cellulose, cellulose triacetate, and cellulose sulphate sodium salt, polypropylene, polyethylenes including poly(ethylene glycol), poly(ethylene oxide), and poly(ethylene terephthalate), and polystyrene. In specific embodiments, the polymer is a polyalkylene glycol, including, for example, polyethylene glycol (PEG).

In exemplary embodiments, the conjugate of the present disclosure comprises an IL-21 mutein linked to a carbohydrate. In some embodiments, the carbohydrate is a monosaccharide (e.g., glucose, galactose, fructose), a disaccharide (e.g., sucrose, lactose, maltose), an oligosaccharide (e.g., raffinose, stachyose), or a polysaccharide (e.g., starch, amylase, amylopectin, cellulose, chitin, callose, laminarin, xylan, mannan, fucoidan, or galactomannan).

In some embodiments, the heterologous moiety is a lipid. The lipid, in some embodiments, is a fatty acid, eicosanoid, prostaglandin, leukotriene, thromboxane, N-acyl ethanolamine), glycerolipid (e.g., mono-, di-, tri-substituted glycerols), glycerophospholipid (e.g., phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylserine), sphingolipid (e.g., sphingosine, ceramide), sterol lipid (e.g., steroid, cholesterol), prenol lipid, saccharolipid, or a polyketide, oil, wax, cholesterol, sterol, fat-soluble vitamin, monoglyceride, diglyceride, triglyceride, a phospholipid.

In exemplary embodiments, the conjugate of the present disclosure comprises an IL-21 mutein linked to a therapeutic agent. The therapeutic agent can be any of those known in the art. In exemplary aspects, the therapeutic agent is an immunotherapy agent insofar as the agent stimulates an immune response. In exemplary aspects, the immunotherapy agent is cancer vaccine. In exemplary aspects, the immunotherapy agent is a monoclonal antibody. In exemplary aspects, the immunotherapy agent is an immune checkpoint inhibitor, e.g., an inhibitor of CTLA4, PD-1, PD-L1. In exemplary instances, the monoclonal antibody is specific for a protein in an immune-checkpoint pathway. The protein of the immune-checkpoint pathway can be, for example, CTLA4, PD-1, PD-L1, B7-H3, B7H4, or TIM3. For instance, the antigen-binding proteins of the present disclosure can be conjugated to atezolizumab, avelumab, ipilimumab, tremelimumab, BMS-936558, MK3475, CT-011, AM-224, MDX-1105, IMP321, MGA271.

In exemplary aspects, the therapeutic agent is a cytokine, lymphokine, growth factor, or hematopoietic factor effective in inhibiting tumor metastasis and/or having an antiproliferative effect on at least one cell population. Such cytokines, lymphokines, growth factors, or other hematopoietic factors include, but are not limited to: M-CSF, GM-CSF, TNF, IL-1, IL-2, IL-3, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IL-9, IL-10, IL-11, IL-12, IL-13, IL-14, IL-15, IL-16, IL-17, IL-18, IFN, TNFα, TNF1, TNF2, G-CSF, Meg-CSF, GM-CSF, thrombopoietin, stem cell factor, and erythropoietin. Additional growth factors for use herein include angiogenin, bone morphogenic protein-1, bone morphogenic protein-2, bone morphogenic protein-3, bone morphogenic protein-4, bone morphogenic protein-5, bone morphogenic protein-6, bone morphogenic protein-7, bone morphogenic protein-8, bone morphogenic protein-9, bone morphogenic protein-10, bone morphogenic protein-11, bone morphogenic protein-12, bone morphogenic protein-13, bone morphogenic protein-14, bone morphogenic protein-15, bone morphogenic protein receptor IA, bone morphogenic protein receptor IB, brain derived neurotrophic factor, ciliary neutrophic factor, ciliary neutrophic factor receptor α, cytokine-induced neutrophil chemotactic factor 1, cytokine-induced neutrophil, chemotactic factor 2 α, cytokine-induced neutrophil chemotactic factor 2 β, β endothelial cell growth factor, endothelin 1, epithelial-derived neutrophil attractant, glial cell line-derived neutrophic factor receptor α 1, glial cell line-derived neutrophic factor receptor α 2, growth related protein, growth related protein α, growth related protein β, growth related protein γ, heparin binding epidermal growth factor, hepatocyte growth factor, hepatocyte growth factor receptor, insulin-like growth factor I, insulin-like growth factor receptor, insulin-like growth factor II, insulin-like growth factor binding protein, keratinocyte growth factor, leukemia inhibitory factor, leukemia inhibitory factor receptor α, nerve growth factor nerve growth factor receptor, neurotrophin-3, neurotrophin-4, pre-B cell growth stimulating factor, stem cell factor, stem cell factor receptor, transforming growth factor α, transforming growth factor β, transforming growth factor β1, transforming growth factor β1.2, transforming growth factor β2, transforming growth factor β3, transforming growth factor β5, latent transforming growth factor β1, transforming growth factor β binding protein I, transforming growth factor β binding protein II, transforming growth factor β binding protein III, tumor necrosis factor receptor type I, tumor necrosis factor receptor type II, urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor, and chimeric proteins and biologically or immunologically active fragments thereof. In exemplary embodiments, the therapeutic agent comprises an antibody specific for any one of the aforementioned cytokines, lymphokines, growth factors, or other hematopoietic factors.

Nucleic Acids

The present disclosure further provides nucleic acids comprising a nucleotide sequence encoding an IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure, a conjugate comprising an IL-21 mutein, or a fusion protein comprising an IL-21 mutein. For example, the nucleic acid may comprise a nucleotide sequence encoding a heavy chain of an anti-PD-1 antibody followed by a nucleotide sequence encoding an IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure. The nucleotide sequence encoding a heavy chain and the nucleotide sequence encoding the IL-21 mutein may flank a nucleotide sequence encoding a peptide linker comprising the amino acid sequence of GGGGS (SEQ ID NO: 262). In alternative aspects, the nucleic acid does not comprise a nucleotide sequence encoding a peptide linker and the nucleotide sequence encoding a heavy chain of an anti-PD-1 antibody is tandem to the nucleotide sequence encoding an IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure.

In exemplary aspects, the nucleic acid comprises a nucleotide sequence encoding an IL-21 mutein comprising an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NOs: 3-21, 23-56, 58-112, 114-208, 210-222, 224-255, and 283, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NOs: 3-21, 23-56, 58-112, 114-208, 210-222, 224-255, and 283.

In exemplary aspects, the nucleic acid comprises a nucleotide sequence encoding a peptide linker of SEQ ID NO: 262 or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 262.

In exemplary aspects, the nucleic acid comprises a nucleotide sequence encoding a fusion protein comprising an amino acid sequence of an antibody constant region described herein fused to an amino acid sequence of any IL-21 mutein described herein. In exemplary instances, the nucleic acid comprises a nucleotide sequence encoding a fusion protein comprising an amino acid sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 265-267, and 282, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 265-267, and 282, fused to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 3-21, 23-56, 58-112, 114-208, 210-222, 224-255, and 283, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 3-21, 23-56, 58-112, 114-208, 210-222, 224-255, and 283. In exemplary aspects, the nucleic acid comprises a nucleotide sequence encoding a fusion protein comprising an amino acid sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 268-281, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 268-281.

In exemplary aspects, the nucleic acid comprises a nucleotide sequence encoding an anti-PD-1 antibody comprising a heavy chain constant region amino acid sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 265-267, 282, 284-311, 472-495 and 544-555, or an amino acid sequence which has at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or has greater than about 90% (e.g., about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99%) sequence identity to any one of SEQ ID NO: 265-267, 282, 284-311, 472-495 and 544-555.

The present disclosure further provides nucleic acids comprising a nucleotide sequence encoding a PD-1 antigen binding protein of the present disclosure. In exemplary aspects, the nucleotide sequence comprises a sequence encoding a heavy chain CDR or light chain CDR, a heavy chain variable region or light chain variable region or heavy chain sequence or light chain sequence. See Table G below. In exemplary instances, the nucleotide sequence comprises any one of SEQ ID NOs: 392-471. The present disclosure further provides pairs of nucleotide sequences comprising (a) SEQ ID NOs: 398 and 399, (b) SEQ ID NOs: 408 and 409, (c) SEQ ID NOs: 418 and 419, (d) SEQ ID NOs: 428 and 429, (e) SEQ ID NOs: 438 and 439, (f) SEQ ID NOs: 448 and 449, (g) SEQ ID NOs: 458 and 459, or (h) SEQ ID NOs: 468 and 469. The present disclosure additionally provides pairs of nucleotide sequences comprising (a) SEQ ID NOs: 400 and 401, (b) SEQ ID NOs: 410 and 411, (c) SEQ ID NOs: 420 and 421, (d) SEQ ID NOs: 430 and 431, (e) SEQ ID NOs: 440 and 441, (f) SEQ ID NOs: 450 and 451, (g) SEQ ID NOs: 460 and 461, or (h) SEQ ID NOs: 470 and 471.

TABLE G 20A2 20C1 22D4 20C1.006 20C1.009 20A2.003 22D4.006 22D4.017 HC CDR1 392 402 412 422 432 442 452 462 HC CDR2 393 403 413 423 433 443 453 463 HC CDR3 394 404 414 424 434 444 454 464 LC CDR1 395 405 415 425 435 445 455 465 LC CDR2 396 406 416 426 436 446 456 466 LC CDR3 397 407 417 427 437 447 457 467 HC 398 408 418 428 438 448 458 468 VARIABLE LC 399 409 419 429 439 449 459 469 VARIABLE HC FULL 400 410 420 430 440 450 460 470 LENGTH LC FULL 401 411 421 431 441 451 461 471 LENGTH

In exemplary aspects, the nucleic acid molecule comprises a nucleotide sequence encoding a conjugate or fusion protein of the present disclosure. By “nucleic acid” as used herein includes “polynucleotide,” “oligonucleotide,” and “nucleic acid molecule,” and generally means a polymer of DNA or RNA, or modified forms thereof, which can be single-stranded or double-stranded, synthesized or obtained (e.g., isolated and/or purified) from natural sources, which can contain natural, non-natural or altered nucleotides, and which can contain a natural, non-natural or altered inter-nucleotide linkage, such as a phosphoroamidate linkage or a phosphorothioate linkage, instead of the phosphodiester found between the nucleotides of an unmodified oligonucleotide. The nucleic acid can comprise any nucleotide sequence which encodes any of the antigen-binding proteins or polypeptides of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid does not comprise any insertions, deletions, inversions, and/or substitutions. In other embodiments, the nucleic acid comprises one or more insertions, deletions, inversions, and/or substitutions.

In some aspects, the nucleic acids of the present disclosure are recombinant. As used herein, the term “recombinant” refers to (i) molecules that are constructed outside living cells by joining natural or synthetic nucleic acid segments to nucleic acid molecules that can replicate in a living cell, or (ii) molecules that result from the replication of those described in (i) above. For purposes herein, the replication can be in vitro replication or in vivo replication.

The nucleic acids in some aspects are constructed based on chemical synthesis and/or enzymatic ligation reactions using procedures known in the art. See, for example, Sambrook et al., supra; and Ausubel et al., supra. For example, a nucleic acid can be chemically synthesized using naturally occurring nucleotides or variously modified nucleotides designed to increase the biological stability of the molecules or to increase the physical stability of the duplex formed upon hybridization (e.g., phosphorothioate derivatives and acridine substituted nucleotides). Examples of modified nucleotides that can be used to generate the nucleic acids include, but are not limited to, 5-fluorouracil, 5-bromouracil, 5-chlorouracil, 5-iodouracil, hypoxanthine, xanthine, 4-acetylcytosine, 5-(carboxyhydroxymethyl) uracil, 5-carboxymethylaminomethyl-2-thiouridme, 5-carboxymethylaminomethyluracil, dihydrouracil, beta-D-galactosylqueosine, inosine, N⁶-isopentenyladenine, 1-methylguanine, 1-methylinosine, 2,2-dimethylguanine, 2-methyladenine, 2-methylguanine, 3-methylcytosine, 5-methylcytosine, N-substituted adenine, 7-methylguanine, 5-methylammomethyluracil, 5-methoxyaminomethyl-2-thiouracil, beta-D-mannosylqueosine, 5′-methoxycarboxymethyluracil, 5-methoxyuracil, 2-methylthio-N⁶-isopentenyladenine, uracil-5-oxyacetic acid (v), wybutoxosine, pseudouratil, queosine, 2-thiocytosine, 5-methyl-2-thiouracil, 2-thiouracil, 4-thiouracil, 5-methyluracil, uracil-5-oxyacetic acid methylester, 3-(3-amino-3-N-2-carboxypropyl) uracil, and 2,6-diaminopurine. Alternatively, one or more of the nucleic acids of the present disclosure can be purchased from companies, such as Macromolecular Resources (Fort Collins, Colo.) and Synthegen (Houston, Tex.).

Vectors

The nucleic acids of the present disclosure in some aspects are incorporated into a vector. In this regard, the present disclosure provides vectors comprising any of the presently disclosed nucleic acids. In exemplary aspects, the vector is a recombinant expression vector. For purposes herein, the term “recombinant expression vector” means a genetically-modified oligonucleotide or polynucleotide construct that permits the expression of an mRNA, protein, polypeptide, or peptide by a host cell, when the construct comprises a nucleotide sequence encoding the mRNA, protein, polypeptide, or peptide, and the vector is contacted with the cell under conditions sufficient to have the mRNA, protein, polypeptide, or peptide expressed within the cell. The vectors of the present disclosure are not naturally-occurring as a whole. However, parts of the vectors can be naturally-occurring. The presently disclosed vectors can comprise any type of nucleotides, including, but not limited to DNA and RNA, which can be single-stranded or double-stranded, synthesized or obtained in part from natural sources, and which can contain natural, non-natural or altered nucleotides. The vectors can comprise naturally-occurring or non-naturally-occurring internucleotide linkages, or both types of linkages. In some aspects, the altered nucleotides or non-naturally occurring internucleotide linkages do not hinder the transcription or replication of the vector.

The vector of the present disclosure can be any suitable vector, and can be used to transform or transfect any suitable host. Suitable vectors include those designed for propagation and expansion or for expression or both, such as plasmids and viruses. The vector can be selected from the group consisting of the pUC series (Fermentas Life Sciences), the pBluescript series (Stratagene, LaJolla, Calif.), the pET series (Novagen, Madison, Wis.), the pGEX series (Pharmacia Biotech, Uppsala, Sweden), and the pEX series (Clontech, Palo Alto, Calif.). Bacteriophage vectors, such as λGTIO, XGTI 1, λZapII (Stratagene), λEMBL4, and λNM1 149, also can be used. Examples of plant expression vectors include pBIO1, pBI101.2, pBI101.3, pBI121 and pBIN19 (Clontech). Examples of animal expression vectors include pEUK-C1, pMAM and pMAMneo (Clontech). In some aspects, the vector is a viral vector, e.g., a retroviral vector.

The vectors of the present disclosure can be prepared using standard recombinant DNA techniques described in, for example, Sambrook et al., supra, and Ausubel et al., supra. Constructs of expression vectors, which are circular or linear, can be prepared to contain a replication system functional in a prokaryotic or eukaryotic host cell. Replication systems can be derived, e.g., from CoIE1, 2μ plasmid, λ, SV40, bovine papilloma virus, and the like.

In some aspects, the vector comprises regulatory sequences, such as transcription and translation initiation and termination codons, which are specific to the type of host (e.g., bacterium, fungus, plant, or animal) into which the vector is to be introduced, as appropriate and taking into consideration whether the vector is DNA- or RNA-based.

The vector can include one or more marker genes, which allow for selection of transformed or transfected hosts. Marker genes include biocide resistance, e.g., resistance to antibiotics, heavy metals, etc., complementation in an auxotrophic host to provide prototrophy, and the like. Suitable marker genes for the presently disclosed expression vectors include, for instance, neomycin/G418 resistance genes, hygromycin resistance genes, histidinol resistance genes, tetracycline resistance genes, and ampicillin resistance genes.

The vector can comprise a native or normative promoter operably linked to the nucleotide sequence encoding the polypeptide (including functional portions and functional variants thereof), or to the nucleotide sequence which is complementary to or which hybridizes to the nucleotide sequence encoding the IL-21, conjugate, or fusion protein. The selection of promoters, e.g., strong, weak, inducible, tissue-specific and developmental-specific, is within the ordinary skill of the artisan. Similarly, the combining of a nucleotide sequence with a promoter is also within the skill of the artisan. The promoter can be a non-viral promoter or a viral promoter, e.g., a cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter, an SV40 promoter, an RSV promoter, and a promoter found in the long-terminal repeat of the murine stem cell virus.

Host Cells

Provided herein are host cells comprising a nucleic acid or vector of the present disclosure. As used herein, the term “host cell” refers to any type of cell that can contain the presently disclosed vector and is capable of producing an expression product encoded by the nucleic acid (e.g., mRNA, protein). The host cell in some aspects is an adherent cell or a suspended cell, i.e., a cell that grows in suspension. The host cell in exemplary aspects is a cultured cell or a primary cell, i.e., isolated directly from an organism, e.g., a human. The host cell can be of any cell type, can originate from any type of tissue, and can be of any developmental stage.

In exemplary aspects, the cell is a eukaryotic cell, including, but not limited to, a yeast cell, filamentous fungi cell, protozoa cell, algae cell, insect cell, or mammalian cell. Such host cells are described in the art. See, e.g., Frenzel, et al., Front Immunol 4: 217 (2013). In exemplary aspects, the eukaryotic cells are mammalian cells. In exemplary aspects, the mammalian cells are non-human mammalian cells. In some aspects, the cells are Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells and derivatives thereof (e.g., CHO-K1, CHO pro-3, CS9), mouse myeloma cells (e.g., NS0, GS-NS0, Sp2/0), cells engineered to be deficient in dihydrofolatereductase (DHFR) activity (e.g., DUKX-X11, DG44), human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK293) cells or derivatives thereof (e.g., HEK293T, HEK293-EBNA), green African monkey kidney cells (e.g., COS cells, VERO cells), human cervical cancer cells (e.g., HeLa), human bone osteosarcoma epithelial cells U2-OS, adenocarcinomic human alveolar basal epithelial cells A549, human fibrosarcoma cells HT1080, mouse brain tumor cells CAD, embryonic carcinoma cells P19, mouse embryo fibroblast cells NIH 3T3, mouse fibroblast cells L929, mouse neuroblastoma cells N2a, human breast cancer cells MCF-7, retinoblastoma cells Y79, human retinoblastoma cells SO-Rb50, human liver cancer cells Hep G2, mouse B myeloma cells J558L, or baby hamster kidney (BHK) cells (Gaillet et al. 2007; Khan, Adv Pharm Bull 3(2): 257-263 (2013)). In a particular embodiment, the host cell is CS9 (a CHO cell line).

For purposes of amplifying or replicating the vector, the host cell is in some aspects is a prokaryotic cell, e.g., a bacterial cell.

Also provided by the present disclosure is a population of cells comprising at least one host cell described herein. The population of cells in some aspects is a heterogeneous population comprising the host cell comprising vectors described, in addition to at least one other cell, which does not comprise any of the vectors. Alternatively, in some aspects, the population of cells is a substantially homogeneous population, in which the population comprises mainly host cells (e.g., consisting essentially of) comprising the vector. The population in some aspects is a clonal population of cells, in which all cells of the population are clones of a single host cell comprising a vector, such that all cells of the population comprise the vector. In exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the population of cells is a clonal population comprising host cells comprising a vector as described herein.

Pharmaceutical Compositions

Compositions comprising an IL-21 mutein, a conjugate comprising the IL-21 mutein, a fusion protein comprising the IL-21 mutein and a polypeptide, a PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., an anti-PD-1 antibody), a conjugate comprising the PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., an anti-PD-1 antibody), a fusion protein comprising the PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., an anti-PD-1 antibody), a nucleic acid, vector, or host cell, of the present disclosure, or a combination thereof, are provided herein. The compositions in some aspects comprise the IL-21 mutein, PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., an anti-PD-1 antibody), a conjugate, fusion protein, nucleic acid, vector, or host cell of the present disclosure, or a combination thereof, in isolated and/or purified form. In some aspects, the composition comprises a single type (e.g., structure) of an IL-21 mutein, PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., an anti-PD-1 antibody), a conjugate, fusion protein, nucleic acid, vector, or host cell of the present disclosure, or comprises a combination of two or more different types (e.g., different structures) of IL-21 muteins, PD-1 antigen-binding proteins, conjugates, fusion proteins, nucleic acids, vectors or host cells of the present disclosure.

In exemplary aspects, the composition comprises agents which enhance the chemico-physico features of the IL-21 mutein, PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., an anti-PD-1 antibody), a conjugate, fusion protein, nucleic acid, vector, or host cell, e.g., via stabilizing, for example, the IL-21 mutein or fusion protein at certain temperatures (e.g., room temperature), increasing shelf life, reducing degradation, e.g., oxidation protease mediated degradation, increasing half-life of, for example, the IL-21 mutein or fusion protein, etc. In some aspects, the composition comprises any of the agents disclosed herein as a heterologous moiety or conjugate moiety, optionally, in admixture with the IL-21 muteins, conjugates, fusion proteins, nucleic acids, vectors, or host cells of the present disclosure.

In exemplary aspects of the present disclosure, the composition additionally comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, diluents, or excipient. In some embodiments, the IL-21 muteins, PD-1 antigen-binding proteins (e.g., an anti-PD-1 antibodies), conjugates, fusion proteins, nucleic acids, vectors, or host cells as presently disclosed (hereinafter referred to as “active agents”) is formulated into a pharmaceutical composition comprising the active agent, along with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, diluent, or excipient. In this regard, the present disclosure further provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising an active agent (i.e., any of the IL-21 muteins, PD-1 antigen-binding proteins (e.g., an anti-PD-1 antibodies), conjugates, fusion proteins, nucleic acids, vectors, or host cells of the present disclosure), which pharmaceutical composition is intended for administration to a subject, e.g., a mammal.

In some embodiments, the active agent is present in the pharmaceutical composition at a purity level suitable for administration to a patient. In some embodiments, the active agent has a purity level of at least about 90%, about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98% or about 99%, and a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent, carrier or excipient. In some embodiments, the compositions contain an active agent at a concentration of about 0.001 to about 30.0 mg/ml.

In exemplary aspects, the pharmaceutical compositions comprise a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. As used herein, the term “pharmaceutically acceptable carrier” includes any of the standard pharmaceutical carriers, such as a phosphate buffered saline solution, water, emulsions such as an oil/water or water/oil emulsion, and various types of wetting agents. The term also encompasses any of the agents approved by a regulatory agency of the US Federal government or listed in the US Pharmacopeia for use in animals, including humans.

The pharmaceutical composition can comprise any pharmaceutically acceptable ingredients, including, for example, acidifying agents, additives, adsorbents, aerosol propellants, air displacement agents, alkalizing agents, anticaking agents, anticoagulants, antimicrobial preservatives, antioxidants, antiseptics, bases, binders, buffering agents, chelating agents, coating agents, coloring agents, desiccants, detergents, diluents, disinfectants, disintegrants, dispersing agents, dissolution enhancing agents, dyes, emollients, emulsifying agents, emulsion stabilizers, fillers, film forming agents, flavor enhancers, flavoring agents, flow enhancers, gelling agents, granulating agents, humectants, lubricants, mucoadhesives, ointment bases, ointments, oleaginous vehicles, organic bases, pastille bases, pigments, plasticizers, polishing agents, preservatives, sequestering agents, skin penetrants, solubilizing agents, solvents, stabilizing agents, suppository bases, surface active agents, surfactants, suspending agents, sweetening agents, therapeutic agents, thickening agents, tonicity agents, toxicity agents, viscosity-increasing agents, water-absorbing agents, water-miscible cosolvents, water softeners, or wetting agents. See, e.g., the Handbook of Pharmaceutical Excipients, Third Edition, A. H. Kibbe (Pharmaceutical Press, London, U K, 2000), which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sixteenth Edition, E. W. Martin (Mack Publishing Co., Easton, Pa., 1980), which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

In exemplary aspects, the pharmaceutical composition comprises formulation materials that are nontoxic to recipients at the dosages and concentrations employed. In specific embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising an active agent and one or more pharmaceutically acceptable salts; polyols; surfactants; osmotic balancing agents; tonicity agents; anti-oxidants; antibiotics; antimycotics; bulking agents; lyoprotectants; anti-foaming agents; chelating agents; preservatives; colorants; analgesics; or additional pharmaceutical agents. In exemplary aspects, the pharmaceutical composition comprises one or more polyols and/or one or more surfactants, optionally, in addition to one or more excipients, including but not limited to, pharmaceutically acceptable salts; osmotic balancing agents (tonicity agents); anti-oxidants; antibiotics; antimycotics; bulking agents; lyoprotectants; anti-foaming agents; chelating agents; preservatives; colorants; and analgesics.

In certain embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition can contain formulation materials for modifying, maintaining or preserving, for example, the pH, osmolarity, viscosity, clarity, color, isotonicity, odor, sterility, stability, rate of dissolution or release, adsorption or penetration of the composition. In such embodiments, suitable formulation materials include, but are not limited to, amino acids (such as glycine, glutamine, asparagine, arginine or lysine); antimicrobials; antioxidants (such as ascorbic acid, sodium sulfite or sodium hydrogen-sulfite); buffers (such as borate, bicarbonate, Tris-HCl, citrates, phosphates or other organic acids); bulking agents (such as mannitol or glycine); chelating agents (such as ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA)); complexing agents (such as caffeine, polyvinylpyrrolidone, beta-cyclodextrin or hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin); fillers; monosaccharides; disaccharides; and other carbohydrates (such as glucose, mannose or dextrins); proteins (such as serum albumin, gelatin or immunoglobulins); coloring, flavoring and diluting agents; emulsifying agents; hydrophilic polymers (such as polyvinylpyrrolidone); low molecular weight polypeptides; salt-forming counterions (such as sodium); preservatives (such as benzalkonium chloride, benzoic acid, salicylic acid, thimerosal, phenethyl alcohol, methylparaben, propylparaben, chlorhexidine, sorbic acid or hydrogen peroxide); solvents (such as glycerin, propylene glycol or polyethylene glycol); sugar alcohols (such as mannitol or sorbitol); suspending agents; surfactants or wetting agents (such as pluronics, PEG, sorbitan esters, polysorbates such as polysorbate 20, polysorbatc, triton, tromethamine, lecithin, cholesterol, tyloxapal); stability enhancing agents (such as sucrose or sorbitol); tonicity enhancing agents (such as alkali metal halides, preferably sodium or potassium chloride, mannitol sorbitol); delivery vehicles; diluents; excipients and/or pharmaceutical adjuvants. See, REMINGTON'S PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, 18″ Edition, (A. R. Genrmo, ed.), 1990, Mack Publishing Company.

The pharmaceutical compositions can be formulated to achieve a physiologically compatible pH. In some embodiments, the pH of the pharmaceutical composition can be for example between about 4 or about 5 and about 8.0 or about 4.5 and about 7.5 or about 5.0 to about 7.5. In exemplary embodiments, the pH of the pharmaceutical composition is between 5.5 and 7.5.

Routes of Administration

With regard to the present disclosure, the active agent, or pharmaceutical composition comprising the same, can be administered to the subject via any suitable route of administration. For example, the active agent can be administered to a subject via parenteral, nasal, oral, pulmonary, topical, vaginal, or rectal administration. The following discussion on routes of administration is merely provided to illustrate exemplary embodiments and should not be construed as limiting the scope in any way.

Formulations suitable for parenteral administration include aqueous and non-aqueous, isotonic sterile injection solutions, which can contain anti-oxidants, buffers, bacteriostats, and solutes that render the formulation isotonic with the blood of the intended recipient, and aqueous and non-aqueous sterile suspensions that can include suspending agents, solubilizers, thickening agents, stabilizers, and preservatives. The term, “parenteral” means not through the alimentary canal but by some other route such as subcutaneous, intramuscular, intraspinal, or intravenous. The active agent of the present disclosure can be administered with a physiologically acceptable diluent in a pharmaceutical carrier, such as a sterile liquid or mixture of liquids, including water, saline, aqueous dextrose and related sugar solutions, an alcohol, such as ethanol or hexadecyl alcohol, a glycol, such as propylene glycol or polyethylene glycol, dimethylsulfoxide, glycerol, ketals such as 2,2-dimethyl-153-dioxolane-4-methanol, ethers, poly(ethyleneglycol) 400, oils, fatty acids, fatty acid esters or glycerides, or acetylated fatty acid glycerides with or without the addition of a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant, such as a soap or a detergent, suspending agent, such as pectin, carbomers, methylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, or carboxymethylcellulose, or emulsifying agents and other pharmaceutical adjuvants.

Oils, which can be used in parenteral formulations include petroleum, animal, vegetable, or synthetic oils. Specific examples of oils include peanut, soybean, sesame, cottonseed, corn, olive, petrolatum, and mineral. Suitable fatty acids for use in parenteral formulations include oleic acid, stearic acid, and isostearic acid. Ethyl oleate and isopropyl myristate are examples of suitable fatty acid esters.

Suitable soaps for use in parenteral formulations include fatty alkali metal, ammonium, and triethanolamine salts, and suitable detergents include (a) cationic detergents such as, for example, dimethyl dialkyl ammonium halides, and alkyl pyridinium halides, (b) anionic detergents such as, for example, alkyl, aryl, and olefin sulfonates, alkyl, olefin, ether, and monoglyceride sulfates, and sulfosuccinates, (c) nonionic detergents such as, for example, fatty amine oxides, fatty acid alkanolamides, and polyoxyethylenepolypropylene copolymers, (d) amphoteric detergents such as, for example, alkyl-β-aminopropionates, and 2-alkyl-imidazoline quaternary ammonium salts, and (e) mixtures thereof.

The parenteral formulations in some embodiments contain from about 0.5% to about 25% by weight of the active agent of the present disclosure in solution. Preservatives and buffers can be used. In order to minimize or eliminate irritation at the site of injection, such compositions can contain one or more nonionic surfactants having a hydrophile-lipophile balance (HLB) of from about 12 to about 17. The quantity of surfactant in such formulations will typically range from about 5% to about 15% by weight. Suitable surfactants include polyethylene glycol sorbitan fatty acid esters, such as sorbitan monooleate and the high molecular weight adducts of ethylene oxide with a hydrophobic base, formed by the condensation of propylene oxide with propylene glycol. The parenteral formulations in some aspects are presented in unit-dose or multi-dose sealed containers, such as ampoules and vials, and can be stored in a freeze-dried (lyophilized) condition requiring only the addition of the sterile liquid excipient, for example, water, for injections, immediately prior to use. Extemporaneous injection solutions and suspensions in some aspects are prepared from sterile powders, granules, and tablets of the kind previously described.

Injectable formulations are in accordance with the present disclosure. The requirements for effective pharmaceutical carriers for injectable compositions are well-known to those of ordinary skill in the art (see, e.g., Pharmaceutics and Pharmacy Practice, J. B. Lippincott Company, Philadelphia, Pa., Banker and Chalmers, eds., pages 238-250 (1982), and ASHP Handbook on Injectable Drugs, Toissel, 4th ed., pages 622-630 (1986)).

Dosages

The active agents of the disclosure are believed to be useful in methods of inhibiting a PD-1 signaling, while providing IL-21 signaling, as described herein, and are thus believed to be useful in methods of treating or preventing one or more diseases, e.g., cancer. For purposes of the disclosure, the amount or dose of the active agent administered should be sufficient to effect, e.g., a therapeutic or prophylactic response, in the subject or animal over a reasonable time frame. For example, the dose of the active agent of the present disclosure should be sufficient to treat cancer as described herein in a period of from about 1 to 4 minutes, 1 to 4 hours or 1 to 4 weeks or longer, e.g., 5 to 20 or more weeks, from the time of administration. In certain embodiments, the time period could be even longer. The dose will be determined by the efficacy of the particular active agent and the condition of the animal (e.g., human), as well as the body weight of the animal (e.g., human) to be treated.

Many assays for determining an administered dose are known in the art. For purposes herein, an assay, which comprises comparing the extent to which cancer is treated upon administration of a given dose of the active agent of the present disclosure to a mammal among a set of mammals, each set of which is given a different dose of the active agent, could be used to determine a starting dose to be administered to a mammal. The extent to which cancer is treated upon administration of a certain dose can be represented by, for example, the cytotoxicity of the active agent or the extent of tumor regression achieved with the active agent in a mouse xenograft model. Methods of measuring cytotoxicity of the fusion proteins and methods of assaying tumor regression are known in the art.

The dose of the active agent of the present disclosure also will be determined by the existence, nature and extent of any adverse side effects that might accompany the administration of a particular active agent of the present disclosure. Typically, the attending physician will decide the dosage of the active agent of the present disclosure with which to treat each individual patient, taking into consideration a variety of factors, such as age, body weight, general health, diet, sex, active agent of the present disclosure to be administered, route of administration, and the severity of the condition being treated. By way of example and not intending to limit the present disclosure, the dose of the active agent of the present disclosure can be about 0.0001 to about 1 g/kg body weight of the subject being treated/day, from about 0.0001 to about 0.001 g/kg body weight/day, or about 0.01 mg to about 1 g/kg body weight/day.

Controlled Release Formulations

In some embodiments, the active agents described herein can be modified into a depot form, such that the manner in which the active agent of the present disclosure is released into the body to which it is administered is controlled with respect to time and location within the body (see, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,450,150). Depot forms of active agents of the present disclosure can be, for example, an implantable composition comprising the active agents and a porous or non-porous material, such as a polymer, wherein the active agent is encapsulated by or diffused throughout the material and/or degradation of the non-porous material. The depot is then implanted into the desired location within the body of the subject and the active agent is released from the implant at a predetermined rate.

The pharmaceutical composition comprising the active agent in certain aspects is modified to have any type of in vivo release profile. In some aspects, the pharmaceutical composition is an immediate release, controlled release, sustained release, extended release, delayed release, or bi-phasic release formulation. Methods of formulating peptides for controlled release are known in the art. See, for example, Qian et al., J Pharm 374: 46-52 (2009) and International Patent Application Publication Nos. WO 2008/130158, WO2004/033036; WO2000/032218; and WO 1999/040942.

The instant compositions can further comprise, for example, micelles or liposomes, or some other encapsulated form, or can be administered in an extended release form to provide a prolonged storage and/or delivery effect.

Combinations

In some embodiments, the fusion proteins or antigen-binding proteins (e.g., anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product) described herein are administered alone, and in alternative embodiments, are administered in combination with another therapeutic agent, e.g., another active agent of the invention of different type (e.g., structure). In some aspects, the other therapeutic aims to treat or prevent cancer. In some embodiments, the other therapeutic is a chemotherapeutic agent. In some embodiments, the other therapeutic is an agent used in radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Accordingly, in some aspects, the fusion proteins or antigen-binding proteins (e.g., anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product) described herein are administered in combination with one or more of platinum coordination compounds, topoisomerase inhibitors, antibiotics, antimitotic alkaloids and difluoronucleosides. In exemplary aspects, an IL-21 fusion protein described herein (e.g., an anti-PD-1 antibody fused to an IL-21 mutein) is combined with an antigen-binding protein (e.g., anti-PD-1 antibody, antigen binding antibody fragment thereof, or anti-PD-1 antibody protein product).

In specific embodiments, any of antibodies 20A2, 20C1, 22D4, 20C1.006, 20C1.009, 20A2.003, 22D4.006, 22D4.017 are administered in combination with an IL-21 fusion protein described herein including, for example: a fusion protein comprising a homodimer or monomer selected from:

a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 496);

a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and the fused heavy chain-IL-21 mutein comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 497);

a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 498);

a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 499);

a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 500);

a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 501 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 555);

a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 502 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 556);

a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 503 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 557);

a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 504 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 555);

a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 505 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 556);

a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 391) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 506 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 557);

a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 507);

a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 508);

a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 509);

a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 510);

a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 511);

a homodimer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two antibody heavy chains (each of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein, and each heavy chain-IL-21 mutein fusion comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 512);

a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 513 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 558);

a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 514 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 559);

a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 515 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 560);

a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 516 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 558);

a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 517 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 559); or

a monomer comprising two antibody light chains (each comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 371) and two different antibody heavy chains (one of which is fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 518 and one of which is not fused to an IL-21 mutein and comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 560).

Kits

The present disclosure additionally provides kits comprising an IL-21 mutein, PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., an anti-PD-1 antibodies), a conjugate, fusion protein, nucleic acid, vector, or host cell of the present disclosure, or a combination thereof. The kit in exemplary aspects comprises at least one IL-21 mutein, PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., an anti-PD-1 antibodies), a conjugate, fusion protein, nucleic acid, vector, or host cell of the present disclosure, or a combination thereof, in a container. In exemplary aspects, the at least one IL-21 mutein, PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., an anti-PD-1 antibodies), a conjugate, fusion protein, nucleic acid, vector, or host cell of the present disclosure, is provided in the kit as a unit dose. For purposes herein “unit dose” refers to a discrete amount dispersed in a suitable carrier. In exemplary aspects, the unit dose is the amount sufficient to provide a subject with a desired effect, e.g., treatment of cancer. In exemplary aspects, the kit comprises several unit doses, e.g., a week or month supply of unit doses, optionally, each of which is individually packaged or otherwise separated from other unit doses. In some embodiments, the components of the kit/unit dose are packaged with instructions for administration to a patient. In some embodiments, the kit comprises one or more devices for administration to a patient, e.g., a needle and syringe, and the like. In some aspects, the at least one IL-21 mutein, PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., an anti-PD-1 antibodies), a conjugate, fusion protein, nucleic acid, vector, or host cell of the present disclosure, or a combination thereof, is/are pre-packaged in a ready to use form, e.g., a syringe, an intravenous bag, etc. In exemplary aspects, the ready to use form is for a single use. In exemplary aspects, the kit comprises multiple single use, ready to use forms of the at least one IL-21 mutein, PD-1 antigen-binding protein (e.g., an anti-PD-1 antibodies), a conjugate, fusion protein, nucleic acid, vector, or host cell of the present disclosure. In some aspects, the kit further comprises other therapeutic or diagnostic agents or pharmaceutically acceptable carriers (e.g., solvents, buffers, diluents, etc.), including any of those described herein.

Methods of Manufacture

The IL-21 muteins of the present disclosure may be obtained by methods known in the art. Suitable methods of de novo synthesizing polypeptides are described in, for example, Chan et al., Fmoc Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis, Oxford University Press, Oxford, United Kingdom, 2005; Peptide and Protein Drug Analysis, ed. Reid, R., Marcel Dekker, Inc., 2000; Epitope Mapping, ed. Westwood et al., Oxford University Press, Oxford, United Kingdom, 2000; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,449,752. Additional exemplary methods of making the peptides of the invention are set forth herein.

In some embodiments, the IL-21 muteins described herein are commercially synthesized by companies, such as Synpep (Dublin, Calif.), Peptide Technologies Corp. (Gaithersburg, Md.), Multiple Peptide Systems (San Diego, Calif.), Peptide 2.0 Inc. (Chantilly, Va.), and American Peptide Co. (Sunnyvale, Calif.). In this respect, the IL-21 muteins can be synthetic, recombinant, isolated, and/or purified.

Also, in some aspects, the IL-21 muteins are recombinantly produced using a nucleic acid encoding the amino acid sequence of the peptide using standard recombinant methods. See, for instance, Sambrook et al., Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual. 3rd ed., Cold Spring Harbor Press, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y. 2001; and Ausubel et al., Current Protocols in Molecular Biology, Greene Publishing Associates and John Wiley & Sons, N Y, 1994.

Methods of making an IL-21 mutein are provided herein. The method, in exemplary embodiments, comprises culturing a host cell of the present disclosure to express the IL-21 mutein and harvesting the expressed IL-21 mutein.

Methods of making fusion protein comprising an IL-21 mutein are also provided herein. The method, in exemplary embodiments, comprises culturing a host cell of the present disclosure to express the fusion protein and harvesting the expressed fusion protein.

In exemplary embodiments, the method comprises culturing a host cell comprising a nucleic acid encoding the IL-21 mutein or fusion protein as described herein so as to express the IL-21 mutein or fusion protein. The host cell can be any of the host cells described herein. In exemplary aspects, the host cell is selected from the group consisting of: CHO cells, NS0 cells, COS cells, VERO cells, and BHK cells. In exemplary aspects, the step of culturing a host cell comprises culturing the host cell in a growth medium to support the growth and expansion of the host cell. In exemplary aspects, the growth medium increases cell density, culture viability and productivity in a timely manner. In exemplary aspects, the growth medium comprises amino acids, vitamins, inorganic salts, glucose, and serum as a source of growth factors, hormones, and attachment factors. In exemplary aspects, the growth medium is a fully chemically defined media consisting of amino acids, vitamins, trace elements, inorganic salts, lipids and insulin or insulin-like growth factors. In addition to nutrients, the growth medium also helps maintain pH and osmolality. Several growth media are commercially available and are described in the art. See, e.g., Arora, “Cell Culture Media: A Review” MATER METHODS 3:175 (2013).

In exemplary aspects, the method of making an IL-21 mutein or fusion protein of the present disclosure comprises culturing the host cell in a feed medium. In exemplary aspects, the method comprises culturing in a feed medium in a fed-batch mode. Methods of recombinant protein production are known in the art. See, e.g., Li et al., “Cell culture processes for monoclonal antibody production” MAbs 2(5): 466-477 (2010).

The method making an IL-21 mutein or fusion protein can comprise one or more steps for purifying the mutein or protein from a cell culture or the supernatant thereof and preferably recovering the purified protein. In exemplary aspects, the method comprises one or more chromatography steps, e.g., affinity chromatography (e.g., protein A affinity chromatography), ion exchange chromatography, hydrophobic interaction chromatography. In exemplary aspects, the method comprises purifying the protein using a Protein A affinity chromatography resin.

In exemplary embodiments, the method further comprises steps for formulating the purified protein, etc., thereby obtaining a formulation comprising the purified protein. Such steps are described in Formulation and Process Development Strategies for Manufacturing, eds. Jameel and Hershenson, John Wiley & Sons, Inc. (Hoboken, N.J.), 2010.

Methods of Use

Methods of treatment are additionally provided by the present disclosure. The method, in exemplary embodiments, is a method of treating a subject in need thereof, comprising administering to the subject in need thereof a pharmaceutical composition of the present disclosure in an amount effective to treat the subject.

The pharmaceutical compositions of the present disclosure are useful for inhibiting PD-1 signaling and/or activating IL-21 signaling. Without being bound to a particular theory, [1] the PD-1 inhibiting activity of the compositions provided herein allow such entities to be useful in methods of enhancing T cell activity and enhancing an immune response, and, in particular, an immune response against a tumor or cancer; and/or [2] the IL-21 activating activity of the compositions provided herein allow such entities to enhance T cell survival and effector function, restrict terminal differentiation and loss of replicative potential, promote T cell longevity by shifting activated effector cells towards a more naïve T cell phenotype (e.g., by enhancing CCR7 expression), and enhance cytotoxicity against target (e.g., cancer) cell (e.g., by increasing IFNγ and granzyme B production.

Accordingly, provided herein are methods of enhancing T cell activity in a subject, enhancing T cell survival and effector function, restricting terminal differentiation and loss of replicative potential, promoting T cell longevity, and enhancing cytotoxicity against target (e.g., cancer) cells. In exemplary embodiments, the methods comprise administering to the subject the pharmaceutical composition of the present disclosure in an effective amount. In exemplary aspects, the T cell activity or immune response is directed against a cancer cell or cancer tissue or a tumor cell or tumor. In exemplary aspects, the immune response is a humoral immune response. In exemplary aspects, the immune response is an innate immune response. In exemplary aspects, the immune response which is enhanced is a T-cell mediated immune response.

As used herein, the term “enhance” and words stemming therefrom may not be a 100% or complete enhancement or increase. Rather, there are varying degrees of enhancement of which one of ordinary skill in the art recognizes as having a potential benefit or therapeutic effect. In this respect, the pharmaceutical compositions of the present disclosure may enhance, e.g., T cell activity or enhance an immune response, to any amount or level. In exemplary embodiments, the enhancement provided by the methods of the present disclosure is at least or about a 10% enhancement (e.g., at least or about a 20% enhancement, at least or about a 30% enhancement, at least or about a 40% enhancement, at least or about a 50% enhancement, at least or about a 60% enhancement, at least or about a 70% enhancement, at least or about a 80% enhancement, at least or about a 90% enhancement, at least or about a 95% enhancement, at least or about a 98% enhancement).

Methods of measuring T cell activity and immune responses are known in the art. T cell activity can be measured by, for example, a cytotoxicity assay, such as those described in Fu et al., PLoS ONE 5(7): e11867 (2010). Other T cell activity assays are described in Bercovici et al., Clin Diagn Lab Immunol. 7(6): 859-864 (2000). Methods of measuring immune responses are described in e.g., Macatangay et al., Clin Vaccine Immunol 17(9): 1452-1459 (2010), and Clay et al., Clin Cancer Res. 7(5):1127-35 (2001).

Additionally provided herein are methods of treating a subject with cancer and methods of treating a subject with a solid tumor. In exemplary embodiments, the method comprises administering to the subject the pharmaceutical composition of the present disclosure in an amount effective for treating the cancer or the solid tumor in the subject. The cancer treatable by the methods disclosed herein can be any cancer, e.g., any malignant growth or tumor caused by abnormal and uncontrolled cell division that may spread to other parts of the body through the lymphatic system or the blood stream. The cancer in some aspects is one selected from the group consisting of acute lymphocytic cancer, acute myeloid leukemia, alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, bone cancer, brain cancer, breast cancer, cancer of the anus, anal canal, or anorectum, cancer of the eye, cancer of the intrahepatic bile duct, cancer of the joints, cancer of the neck, gallbladder, or pleura, cancer of the nose, nasal cavity, or middle ear, cancer of the oral cavity, cancer of the vulva, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, chronic myeloid cancer, colon cancer, esophageal cancer, cervical cancer, gastrointestinal carcinoid tumor, Hodgkin lymphoma, hypopharynx cancer, kidney cancer, larynx cancer, liver cancer, lung cancer, malignant mesothelioma, melanoma, multiple myeloma, nasopharynx cancer, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, peritoneum, omentum, and mesentery cancer, pharynx cancer, prostate cancer, rectal cancer, renal cancer (e.g., renal cell carcinoma (RCC)), small intestine cancer, soft tissue cancer, stomach cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid cancer, ureter cancer, and urinary bladder cancer. In particular aspects, the cancer is selected from the group consisting of: head and neck, ovarian, cervical, bladder and oesophageal cancers, pancreatic, gastrointestinal cancer, gastric, breast, endometrial and colorectal cancers, hepatocellular carcinoma, glioblastoma, bladder, lung cancer, e.g., non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), bronchioloalveolar carcinoma. In particular embodiments, the tumor is non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), head and neck cancer, renal cancer, triple negative breast cancer, and gastric cancer. In exemplary aspects, the subject has a tumor (e.g., a solid tumor, a hematological malignancy, or a lymphoid malignancy) and the pharmaceutical composition is administered to the subject in an amount effective to treat the tumor in the subject. In other exemplary aspects, the tumor is non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), small cell lung cancer (SCLC), head and neck cancer, renal cancer, breast cancer, melanoma, ovarian cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, gastric cancer, lymphoma or leukemia, and the pharmaceutical composition is administered to the subject in an amount effective to treat the tumor in the subject.

As used herein, the term “treat,” as well as words related thereto, do not necessarily imply 100% or complete treatment. Rather, there are varying degrees of treatment of which one of ordinary skill in the art recognizes as having a potential benefit or therapeutic effect. In this respect, the methods of treating cancer of the present disclosure can provide any amount or any level of treatment. Furthermore, the treatment provided by the method of the present disclosure can include treatment of one or more conditions or symptoms or signs of the cancer being treated. Also, the treatment provided by the methods of the present disclosure can encompass slowing the progression of the cancer. For example, the methods can treat cancer by virtue of enhancing the T cell activity or an immune response against the cancer, reducing tumor or cancer growth, reducing metastasis of tumor cells, increasing cell death of tumor or cancer cells, and the like. In exemplary aspects, the methods treat by way of delaying the onset or recurrence of the cancer by 1 day, 2 days, 4 days, 6 days, 8 days, 10 days, 15 days, 30 days, two months, 4 months, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, 4 years, or more. In exemplary aspects, the methods treat by way increasing the survival of the subject.

Subjects

In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the subject is a mammal, including, but not limited to, mammals of the order Rodentia, such as mice and hamsters, and mammals of the order Logomorpha, such as rabbits, mammals from the order Carnivora, including Felines (cats) and Canines (dogs), mammals from the order Artiodactyla, including Bovines (cows) and Swines (pigs) or of the order Perssodactyla, including Equines (horses). In some aspects, the mammals are of the order Primates, Ceboids, or Simoids (monkeys) or of the order Anthropoids (humans and apes). In some aspects, the mammal is a human.

EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides an IL-21 mutein comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2,

-   -   QGQDX HMXXM XXXXX XVDXL KNXVN DLVPE FLPAP EDVET NCEWS AFSCF         QKAQL KSANT GNNEX XIXXX XXXLX XXXXX TNAGR RQKHR LTCPS CDSYE         KKPPK EFLXX FXXLL XXMXX QHXSS RTHGS EDS (SEQ ID NO: 2), wherein         “X” represents any amino acid, and wherein the IL-21 mutein         amino acid sequence differs from the amino acid sequence of         human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1) by at least 1 amino acid.

In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence which differs from the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1) by no more than 7 amino acids. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence which differs from the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1) by 3, 4, 5, or 6 amino acids. In exemplary instances, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence which differs from the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1) by 1 or 2 amino acids. In exemplary aspects, the difference(s) between the amino acid sequence of the IL-21 mutein and the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1 is/are within amino acids 10-15, inclusive, or amino acids 105-123, inclusive, of SEQ ID NO: 2, optionally, wherein the difference(s) occur(s) at amino acids 11, 14, 15, 109, 110, 112, 113, 116, 119, 120, and/or 123 of SEQ ID NO: 2. In exemplary aspects, the difference(s) between the amino acid sequence of the IL-21 mutein and the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1 is/are within amino acids 5-25, inclusive, or amino acids 65-80, inclusive, of SEQ ID NO: 2, optionally, wherein the difference(s) occur(s) at amino acids 5, 8, 9, 12, 13, 16, 19, 23, 65, 66, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, and/or 80 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In some aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence with one amino acid substitution relative to the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1). In some instances, the amino acid substitution occurs at position 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 23, 65, 66, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 109, 110, 112, 113, 116, 117, 119, 120, or 123 of SEQ ID NO: 1. In exemplary aspects, the amino acid substitution occurs at position 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 23, 65, 66, 68, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 109, 110, 112, 113, 116, 117, 119, 120, or 123 of SEQ ID NO: 1. In exemplary instances, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid substitution:

-   -   a. at position 5, 8, 9, 12, 14, 15, 65, 66, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75,         76, 77, 80, 116, or 119 of SEQ ID NO: 1, wherein the substitute         amino acid is an aliphatic amino acid     -   b. at position 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 23, 65, 66,         69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 110, 112, 116, 117, 119,         120, or 123 of SEQ ID NO: 1, wherein the substitute amino acid         is an acidic amino acid;     -   c. at position 5, 9, 73, 76, 109, 113, or 116 of SEQ ID NO: 1,         wherein the substitute amino acid is a basic amino acid;     -   d. at position 5, 8, 9, 70, or 76 of SEQ ID NO: 1, wherein the         substitute amino acid is an aromatic amino acid;     -   e. at position 5, 8, 9, 12, 15, 73, 76, 116, or 119 of SEQ ID         NO: 1, wherein the substitute amino acid is an amino acid         comprising a side chain amide;     -   f. at position 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 15, 73, 76, 116, or 119 of         SEQ ID NO: 1, wherein the substitute amino acid is a         non-aromatic amino acid comprising a side chain hydroxyl;     -   g. at position 65, 66, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, or 80 of SEQ         ID NO: 1, wherein the substitute amino acid is an imino acid;     -   h. at position 5, 9, 15, 76, 116, or 119 of SEQ ID NO: 1,         wherein the substitute amino acid is an amino acid comprising a         sulfur-containing side chain; or     -   i. or a combination thereof.

In exemplary aspects, the substitute amino acid is a naturally occurring amino acid. In some instances, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid substitution with an amino acid at the position according to TABLE A. Table A is shown below.

TABLE A Amino Acid position Amino Acid of SEQ ID NO: 1 (in single letter code) 5 A, D, E, G, H, I, K, L, M, N, Q, S, T, V, or Y 8 A, D, E, N, S, T, V, or Y 9 A, D, E, G, H, I, K, L, M, N, Q, S, T, V, or Y 11 D or S 12 A, D, E, N, S, T, or V 13 D 14 A, D, or S 15 A, E, I, M, N, Q, S, T, or V 16 D or E 19 D 23 D 65 D, G, or P 66 D, G, or P 68 Q 69 D, G, or P 70 E, G, P, or Y 71 L 72 D, G, or P 73 A, D, E, G, H, I, N, P, Q, S, or V 75 D, G, or P 76 A, D, E, G, H, I, K, L, M, N, P, Q, S, T, V, or Y 77 D, G, or P 78 D 79 D 80 G, or P 109 K 110 D 112 D 113 K 116 A, D, E, I, K, L, M, N, S, T, or V 117 D 119 A, D, E, M, N, Q, S, or T 120 D 123 D

In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides an IL-21 mutein comprising an amino acid sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 3-21, 23-56, 58-112, 114-208, 210-222, 224-255, and 283.

In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid sequence with two amino acid substitutions relative to the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1). In exemplary aspects, the amino acid substitution occurs at two of positions 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 23, 65, 66, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 109, 110, 112, 113, 116, 117, 119, 120, or 123 of SEQ ID NO: 1. In exemplary instances, the amino acid substitutions occur at two of positions 5, 9, 15, 70, 71, 72, 73, and 76 of SEQ ID NO: 1. Optionally, the amino acid substitutions occur at two of positions 5, 9, 73, and 76 or SEQ ID NO: 1. In some aspects, one of the substitutions occurs at position 76 of SEQ ID NO: 1. In exemplary instances, the substitute amino acid at position 76 of SEQ ID NO: 1 is an aliphatic amino acid or an acidic amino acid. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid substitution at position 5, 9, or 73 of SEQ ID NO: 1, and the substitute amino acid is an aliphatic amino acid or acidic amino acid. In some aspects, the IL-21 mutein comprises an amino acid substitution at position 5 of SEQ ID NO: 1, and the substitute amino acid is an amino acid with a side chain amide. In some instances, the aliphatic amino acid is alanine, the acidic amino acid is glutamic acid, or the amino acid with a side chain amide is glutamine. The present disclosure, in exemplary embodiments, provides an IL-21 mutein comprising an amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 208, 210 to 222, 224 to 248, and 255.

With regard to any of the above aspects, the IL-21 mutein may bind to the IL-21 receptor with a reduced affinity, relative to the affinity of wild-type IL-21 for the IL-21 receptor. In some aspects, the IL-21 receptor has an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 256 or 261. In some instances, the IL-21 mutein binds to a IL-21 receptor gamma chain having an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 257. In exemplary instances, the IL-21 mutein of the present disclosure binds to the human IL-21 receptor of with a Kd that is greater than or is about 0.04 nM.

Further provided are conjugates. In exemplary aspects, the conjugate comprises an IL-21 mutein of any one of the preceding paragraphs and a heterologous moiety. In exemplary instances, the IL-21 is directly attached to the heterologous moiety. In alternative instances, the IL-21 is attached to the heterologous moiety via a linker. In some aspects, the linker comprises a peptide, e.g., comprising an amino acid sequence of Gly-Gly-Gly-Gly-Ser (SEQ ID NO: 262). In exemplary aspects, the heterologous moiety is a polypeptide, optionally, wherein the polypeptide is an antigen-binding protein. In some instances, the heterologous polypeptide is an antibody or an antigen binding antibody fragment thereof. In exemplary embodiments, the antibody is an anti-PD-1 antibody. In some aspects, the IL-21 mutein is directly attached to the Fc of the antibody. In exemplary aspects, the IL-21 mutein is attached to the Fc of the antibody via a linker. The conjugate in some aspects comprises a single IL-21 mutein, wherein said single IL-21 mutein is linked to the C-terminus of one of the two antibody heavy chains. In exemplary instances, the conjugate comprises two IL-21 muteins, wherein the first IL-21 mutein is linked to the C-terminus of the first antibody heavy chain, and the second IL-21 mutein is linked to the C-terminus of the second antibody heavy chain. Optionally, the first IL-21 has the same amino acid sequence as the second IL-21 mutein. Alternatively, the first IL-21 has a different amino acid sequence than the second IL-21 mutein. In exemplary aspects, the antibody heavy chains comprise charge pair mutations (e.g., the V1, V4, V103, or V131 mutations). In exemplary aspects of the conjugate of any one of the preceding paragraphs, the IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions at two of positions 5, 9, 73, and 76 of SEQ ID NO: 1. In exemplary aspects, the conjugate comprises an IL-21 mutein comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1, except that said IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions at any two of positions 5, 9, 73, and 76 of SEQ ID NO: 1, and an anti-PD-1 antibody, wherein the IL-21 mutein is linked to the C-terminus of the anti-PD-1 antibody. In exemplary aspects, the conjugate comprises an anti-PD-1 antibody comprising (a) a heavy chain (HC) complementarity-determining region (CDR) 1 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NOs: 312, 322, 332, 342, 352, 362, 372, and 382, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (b) an HC CDR2 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NOs: 313, 323, 333, 343, 353, 363, 373, and 383, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (c) an HC CDR3 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NOs: 314, 324, 334, 344, 3545, 364, 374, and 384, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (d) a light chain (LC) CDR1 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: 315, 325, 335, 345, 355, 365, 375, and 385, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (e) an LC CDR2 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: 316, 326, 336, 346, 356, 366, 376, and 386, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (f) an LC CDR3 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: 317, 327, 337, 347, 357, 367, 377, and 387, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; or (g) a combination of any two or more of (a)-(f). In exemplary instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises six CDR amino acid sequences selected from the group consisting of: (a) SEQ ID NOs: 312-317; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 322-327; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 332-337; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 342-347; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 352-357; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 362-367; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 372-377; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 382-387. In some aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a pair of amino acid sequences selected from the group consisting of: (a) SEQ ID NOs: 318 and 319; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 328 and 329; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 338 and 339; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 348 and 349; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 358 and 359; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 368 and 369; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 378 and 379; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 388 and 389. In exemplary aspects, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a constant region comprising an amino acid sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 265-267, 282, 284-311. In certain instances, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises a pair of amino acid sequences selected from the group consisting of: (a) SEQ ID NOs: 320 and 321; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 330 and 331; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 340 and 341; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 350 and 351; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 360 and 361; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 370 and 371; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 380 and 381; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 390 and 391.

In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides a fusion polypeptide or fusion protein comprising an IL-21 mutein described herein and a heterologous polypeptide or peptide. In some aspects, the fusion polypeptide or fusion protein comprises an immunoglobulin or an antigen binding antibody fragment thereof. In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides a nucleic acid comprising a nucleotide sequence encoding an IL-21 mutein described herein. In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides a vector comprising the nucleic acid described herein. In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides a host cell comprising the nucleic acid or the vector described herein. In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides a kit comprising an IL-21 mutein, a nucleic acid, vector, host cell, conjugate, fusion protein, or a combination thereof, as described herein, and a container.

Further provided are pharmaceutical compositions comprising an IL-21 mutein, a nucleic acid, vector, host cell, conjugate, fusion protein, or a combination thereof, of the present disclosure, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, excipient, or diluent.

Also provided are methods of making an IL-21 mutein comprising culturing the host cell of the present disclosure so as to express the IL-21 mutein and harvesting the expressed IL-21 mutein. A method of treating a subject in need thereof is further provided. The method comprises administering to the subject in need thereof a pharmaceutical composition of the present disclosure in an amount effective to treat the subject. In exemplary aspects, the subject has a solid tumor and the pharmaceutical composition is administered to the subject in an amount effective to treat the solid tumor in the subject. Optionally, the the solid tumor is selected from the group consisting of: head and neck, ovarian, cervical, bladder and oesophageal cancers, pancreatic, gastrointestinal cancer, gastric, breast, endometrial and colorectal cancers, hepatocellular carcinoma, glioblastoma, bladder, lung cancer, e.g., non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), bronchioloalveolar carcinoma.

In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides a PD-1 antigen-binding protein comprising (a) a heavy chain (HC) complementarity-determining region (CDR) 1 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NOs: 312, 322, 332, 342, 352, 362, 372, and 382, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (b) an HC CDR2 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NOs: 313, 323, 333, 343, 353, 363, 373, and 383, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (c) an HC CDR3 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NOs: 314, 324, 334, 344, 3545, 364, 374, and 384, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (d) a light chain (LC) CDR1 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: 315, 325, 335, 345, 355, 365, 375, and 385, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (e) an LC CDR2 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: 316, 326, 336, 346, 356, 366, 376, and 386, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; (f) an LC CDR3 amino acid sequence set forth in Table D or a sequence selected from the group consisting of: 317, 327, 337, 347, 357, 367, 377, and 387, or a variant sequence thereof which differs by only one or two amino acids or which has at least or about 70% sequence identity; or (g) a combination of any two or more of (a)-(f). In exemplary instances, the PD-1 antigen-binding protein comprises six CDR amino acid sequences selected from the group consisting of: (a) SEQ ID NOs: 312-317; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 322-327; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 332-337; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 342-347; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 352-357; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 362-367; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 372-377; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 382-387. In certain aspects, the PD-1 antigen-binding protein comprises a pair of amino acid sequences selected from the group consisting of: (a) SEQ ID NOs: 318 and 319; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 328 and 329; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 338 and 339; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 348 and 349; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 358 and 359; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 368 and 369; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 378 and 379; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 388 and 389. In exemplary instances, the PD-1 antigen-binding protein comprises a constant region comprising an amino acid sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 265-267, 282, 284-311. In some aspects, the PD-1 antigen-binding protein comprises a pair of amino acid sequences selected from the group consisting of: (a) SEQ ID NOs: 320 and 321; (b) SEQ ID NOs: 330 and 331; (c) SEQ ID NOs: 340 and 341; (d) SEQ ID NOs: 350 and 351; (e) SEQ ID NOs: 360 and 361; (f) SEQ ID NOs: 370 and 371; (g) SEQ ID NOs: 380 and 381; and (h) SEQ ID NOs: 390 and 391.

In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides a conjugate comprising a PD-1 antigen-binding protein as described in the foregoing paragraphs and a heterologous moiety. In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides a fusion polypeptide or fusion protein comprising a PD-1 antigen-binding protein as described in the foregoing paragraphs and a heterologous polypeptide or peptide. In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides a nucleic acid comprising a nucleotide sequence encoding the PD-1 antigen-binding protein, the conjugate, or the fusion polypeptide or fusion protein, as described in the foregoing paragraphs. In exemplary instances, the nucleic acid comprises the sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 392-471. The present disclosure in exemplary embodiments provides a vector comprising the nucleic acid, as described above, as well as a host cell comprising the nucleic acid or the vector, as described above. Also provided is a kit comprising a PD-1 antigen-binding protein as described in the foregoing paragraphs, or a conjugate, fusion polypeptide, fusion protein, nucleic acid, vector, or host cell, or a combination thereof, and a container. The present disclosure provides a pharmaceutical composition that in exemplary embodiments comprises a PD-1 antigen-binding protein as described in the foregoing paragraphs, or a conjugate, fusion polypeptide, fusion protein, nucleic acid, vector, or host cell, or a combination thereof, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, excipient, or diluent. The present disclosure further provides a method of making a PD-1 antigen-binding protein, wherein, in exemplary embodiments, the method comprises culturing the host cell as described in this paragraph, so as to express the PD-1 antigen-binding protein and harvesting the expressed PD-1 antigen-binding protein. The present disclosure additionally provides a method of treating a subject in need thereof, wherein, in exemplary embodiments, the method comprises administering to the subject in need thereof a pharmaceutical composition as described in this paragraph in an amount effective to treat the subject. In exemplary aspects, the subject has a solid tumor and the pharmaceutical composition is administered to the subject in an amount effective to treat the solid tumor in the subject. Optionally, the the solid tumor is selected from the group consisting of: head and neck, ovarian, cervical, bladder and oesophageal cancers, pancreatic, gastrointestinal cancer, gastric, breast, endometrial and colorectal cancers, hepatocellular carcinoma, glioblastoma, bladder, lung cancer, e.g., non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), bronchioloalveolar carcinoma.

The following examples are given merely to illustrate the present disclosure and not in any way to limit its scope.

EXAMPLES Example 1

This example demonstrates that combination therapy comprising a PD-1 blocking antibody and recombinant IL-21 is superior to a corresponding monotherapy.

In a preclinical study, the effects of a combination treatment of a monoclonal PD-1 blocking antibody and recombinant murine IL-21 (rmIL-21) was compared to the effects of monotherapy treatment of either the PD-1 blocking antibody or the rmIL-21.

On Day 1, CT26/3E5 colon carcinoma cells were implanted into BALB/cmice to initiate tumor growth. On Day 12, tumors were measured and the mice were randomized into 4 groups (10 mice per group): Group 1 received an intraperitoneal (IP) injection of 300 μg isotype control antibody (mIgG1), Group 2 received an IP injection of 300 μg of a blocking PD-1 antibody, Group 3 received 50 μg rmIL-21, and Group 4 received both of the blocking PD-1 antibody (300 μg) and rmIL-21 (50 μg). Groups 1, 2, and 4 received antibody once every 3 days, and Groups 3 and 4 received rmIL-21 3× per week for 3 weeks. Dosing ended on Day 33.

Tumor volume was monitored throughout the study. As shown in FIGS. 1A-1D, tumor size increased to the greatest extent for Group 1 and to the least extent for Group 4.

Survival, as measured by the Kaplan Meier log rank mantel cox analysis was the primary endpoint of this study. As shown in FIG. 2 and Table 1, the percent survival and the median survival was greatest for Group 4. Notably, two subjects were tumor free in Group 4 (Table 1).

TABLE 1 Group Median Survival (Days) Subjects Tumor Free 1 25 0 2 29 0 3 27 0 4 37.5 2

These results demonstrate that a combination of a monoclonal PD-1 blocking antibody and recombinant mIL-21 provides superior survival advantage versus either component administered alone as monotherapy.

Example 2

This example demonstrates the design and construction of multiple platforms aimed at providing a combination of PD-1 inhibition and IL-21 signaling.

The results obtained in Example 1 demonstrate the advantages of a combinatorial approach of IL-21 signaling and PD-1 inhibition for the treatment of subjects with tumors. Careful consideration of how IL-21 should be delivered was required, however, because of IL-21's ability to both potentiate CD8 T cell responses and suppress antigen presentation and T cell priming. In addition, IL-21R is broadly expressed in human tissues (e.g., by antigen presenting cells (APCs), NK, B, and T cells), thus requiring careful consideration to avoid off target effects (e.g., IL-21 activity outside a tumor environment) and clearance of IL-21 as it binds its receptor in different tissues.

A two pronged approach to address the above considerations was devised. First, IL-21 muteins with attenuated activity—via reduced binding of the IL-21 muteins to IL-21R—were generated. It was envisioned that such IL-21 muteins would have reduced activity when diffused throughout the body, but that such activity would be “rescued” if the IL-21 muteins could be concentrated in target (e.g., cancer) T cells. That is, the IL-21 muteins, once present and concentrated in target cells would, in the aggregate, exhibit therapeutic IL-21 activity. Second, the IL-21 muteins were fused to a targeting arm, such as a monoclonal antibody, in order to target the IL-21 muteins to relevant cells (e.g., cancer cells). In order to deliver the IL-21 muteins to a target cancer cell, they were fused to an anti-PD-1 mAb. The use of an anti-PD-1 mAb had the additional benefit of preventing signaling through PD-1/PD-L1 (thus acting as a checkpoint inhibitor).

Without being bound by any particular theory, it was hypothesized that a fusion protein comprising an anti-PD-1 antibody fused to an IL-21 mutein would provide a more durable response against cells targeted for destruction. For example, [1] CD8+ T cells expressing PD-1 would be bound by the anti-PD-1 mAb of the fusion protein, and [2] simultaneous binding of the IL-21 mutein of the fusion protein to the IL-21 receptor expressed by the CD8+ T cells would lead to increased proliferation of the T cells as well as greater IFNγ production and secretion by the T cells, which would improve the overall cytotoxicity against the target cells. It was further hypothesized that intracellular signaling pathways activated by IL-21 would prevent terminal differentiation and associated loss of effector function and apoptosis. See FIG. 3.

Additional design considerations included the valency of the mAb (e.g., monovalent or bivalent mAb), requirement for Fc-effector function, site for cytokine fusion (C or N terminus of mAb), inclusion of a linker, and remediation of predicted secondary modification or clipping sites.

Several fusion protein formats were considered and four fusion constructs were cloned and expressed for proof of concept experiments. Wild-type (WT) IL-21 was fused to the C-terminus of an IgG of a bivalent PD-1 mAb as (1) an IL-21 homodimer without any linker; (2) an IL-21 homodimer with a GGGGS (SEQ ID NO: 262) linker; (3) an IL-21 monomer without any linker, but with charge pair mutations in the IgG Fc to drive heterodimerization; and (4) an IL-21 monomer with both a GGGGS (SEQ ID NO: 262) linker and charge pair mutations. All four fusion protein constructs included the following modifications in the mAb Fc-region, numbered according to the EU system: N297G, R292C, V302C (SEFL2-2 mutations). The charge pair mutations used were the V1 mutations (i.e., K409D & K392D in one heavy chain and D399K & E356K in the other heavy chain). All four fusion protein constructs were designed to have a C-terminal lysine removed to prevent clipping.

The fusion constructs were screened for IL-21 activity in cell assays using two variants (PD-1^(+ve) and PD-1^(−ve)) of an IL-21R-positive (IL-21R+) Hut78 T cell line. In each cell line, STAT3 phosphorylation was measured as a surrogate measure of IL-21 activity. Both Hut78 cell variants was exposed to (i) recombinant human IL-21 (rhIL-21) alone, (ii) anti-PD-1 mAb alone, (iii) anti-PD-1 mAb fused to an IL-21 homodimer with a linker, (iv) anti-PD-1 mAb fused to an IL-21 homodimer without a linker, (v) anti-PD-1 mAb fused to an IL-21 monomer with a linker or (vi) anti-PD-1 mAb fused to an IL-21 monomer without a linker. The results of the STAT3 phosphorylation assay and the EC50s of each molecule for STAT signaling are shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B and Table 2, respectively.

TABLE 2 PD-1^(−ve) PD-1^(+ve) Molecule EC50 (pM) EC50 (pM) rhIL-21 153 204  Anti-PD-1 mAb — — Fusion of Anti-PD-1 mAb + IL-21 1184  97 homodimer, no linker Fusion of Anti-PD-1 mAb + IL-21 1822  60 homodimer, + linker Fusion of Anti-PD-1 mAb + IL-21 523 70 monomer, no linker Fusion of Anti-PD-1 mAb + IL-21 392 58 monomer, + linker

As shown in FIG. 5A and Table 2 (middle column), the fusion protein comprising an anti-PD-1 mAb with an IL-21 homodimer exhibited 10-fold less potency relative to rhIL-21 in PD-1^(−ve) cells. rhIL-21 was also more potent as compared to the fusion protein comprising the IL-21 monomer. Despite having only one IL-21 moiety, the monomeric fusion protein showed greater potency relative to the homodimer having two IL-21 moieties. These results suggest that the monomer exhibits higher IL-21 activity in PD-1^(−ve) cells and/or suggest that the homodimer fusion protein format may confer partial attenuation of IL-21 activity (e.g., possibly through steric interactions between IL-21 moieties).

This study also allowed for evaluation of the linker between the IL-21 portion and the IgG C-terminus. As shown in Table 2 (middle column) and FIGS. 5A and 5B (solid line=no linker; dotted line=linker), the presence of a linker does not seem to affect IL-21 activity. Consequently, all future constructs were made without the linker to reduce the amount of non-native sequences in the fusion proteins.

The effect of PD-1 expression on IL-21 activity was evaluated by comparing the results of the STAT3 phosphorylation assay among the PD-1^(−ve) cells and the PD-1^(+ve) cells. As shown in FIG. 5B, the IL-21 activity of each of the IL-21 homodimer and monomer fusion proteins in PD-1^(+ve) cells was essentially the same.

Together, these results demonstrate that IL-21 signaling, in the absence of PD-1 expression in a target cell, can be attenuated by fusing IL-21 to an anti-PD-1 mAb. In addition, IL-21 signaling of an IL-21 fused to an anti-PD-1 mAb is rescued in cells expressing PD-1.

Example 3

This example demonstrates the design, construction, and characterization of multiple IL-21 muteins.

To gain an understanding of the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) profile of the fusion protein, a fusion protein comprising an IgG fused to a homodimer of WT IL-21 was tested in vivo in a cynomologous monkeys.

The homodimer fusion protein comprising WT IL-21 fused to an anti-PD-1 mAb was intravenously administered to 6 animals at either a low dose (250 μg/kg) or a high dose (1000 μg/kg). An IgG antibody domain (150 μg/kg) was run as a control. Serum concentrations were measured over time, and C_(max), AUC_(last), half-life (t_(1/2)), Vss, and Cl were determined. The results are shown in FIG. 6 and Table 3.

TABLE 3 Dose C_(max) AUC_(last) half-life (t_(1/2)) VSS CL Animal No. (μg/kg) (μg/mL) (hr*μg/mL) (hr) (mL/kg) (mL/hr/kg) 979 250 78.5 331 9.99 7400 635 980 250 72.4 463 10.6 7136 521 981 250 101 429 19.6 8904 366 Mean Low 250 84.0 ± 15.1  408 ± 69  13.4 ± 5.4  7813 ± 954  507 ± 135  Dose 982 1000 401 3500 43 6943 281 983 1000 414 2746 21.2 6953 361 984 1000 486 4345 25.0 4996 226 Mean High 1000  434 ± 45.8 3530 ± 800 29.7 ± 11.6 6297 ± 1127 289 ± 67.9 Dose

Relative to the IgG control (data not shown), the homodimer fusion protein comprising an anti-PD-1 mAb and WT IL-21 exhibited increased clearance and lower exposures. It was thus determined that, in order to enhance exposure of the fusion protein and to minimize off-target IL-21 effects (i.e., minimize IL-21 signaling at immune cells which do not express the PD-1 receptor), mutagenesis of IL-21 to attenuate signaling through the IL-21R would be needed. Accordingly, a fusion protein comprising a mutated IL-21 was designed to bind less strongly to IL-21R on cells that did not express PD-1. It was hypothesized that the fusion protein would first bind PD-1 target (by binding anti-PD-1 antibody binding) with high affinity which would then drive the second lower affinity interaction between the IL-21 mutein and IL-21R (alpha chain). In the absence of PD-1 receptor it was hypothesized that fusion proteins would not bind to cells not expressing PD-1 receptor, irrespective of IL-21R expression.

Structure guided engineering was used to create a panel of 141 IL-21 muteins, each having a single amino acid substitution compared to the WT IL-21 amino acid sequence. Each mutein was designed to have reduced affinity for either the alpha subunit of the IL-21R (101 muteins) or the gamma subunit of IL-21R (40 muteins). Each mutein of the panel was expressed as a fusion protein with a PD-1 mAb (PD-1×IL-21 mutein), and subsequently assessed for its ability to bind to IL-21R using the FortdBio Octet® system (Pall FortdBio; Fremont, Calif.) and screened for activity using the IL-21R+ T cell line (Hut78) using STAT3 phosphorylation as a surrogate for IL-21 activity. To select muteins which have the least potential for off-target activity, selection criteria was set at a greater than 20-fold attenuation in IL-21 signaling vs rhIL-21 at 3.7 nM on PD-1^(−ve) cells.

A complete list of the 141 muteins are shown in Table 4.

TABLE 4 IL-21 α SEQ chain or Fold IL-21 AA ID γ chain IL-21R-Fc Affinity Mutant substitution NO: mutein Kd (nM) Reduction  1 R5D 74 α NB  2 R5E 75 α NB  3 R5G 76 α NB  4 R5H 77 α WB  5 R5I 78 α WB  6 R5K 79 α WB  7 R5L 80 α WB  8 R5M 81 α WB  9 R5N 82 α NB 11 R5S 84 α WB 12 R5T 85 α WB 13 R5V 86 α WB 14 R5Y 87 α WB 15 I8A 88 α WB 16 I8D 89 α WB 17 I8E 90 α NB 18 I8G 91 α WB 19 I8N 92 α WB 22 R9D 95 α >100 23 R9E 96 α NB 29 R9M 102 α WB 30 R9N 103 α WB 31 R9Q 104 α WB 32 R9S 105 α WB 33 R9T 106 α WB 34 R9V 107 α WB 24 R9G 97 α ~40 74 K75D 156 α 19.86 79 R76E 161 α 18.47 738.8 86 R76N 168 α 15.31 612.4 78 R76D 160 α ~12 77 R76A 159 α ~11 440 43 L13D 112 α 11 440 59 S70P 138 α ~10 62 K72P 143 α 8.958 53 I66P 132 α 7.11 21 R9A 94 α 6.836 20 I8S 93 α ~4 160 52 I66G 131 α 4.552 95 K77P 177 α 2.056 26 R9I 99 α 2.2 42 Q12V 249 α <2.2 88 70 K73P 152 α ~2 80 80 R76G 162 α ~2 80 81 R76H 163 α ~2 80 56 V69P 135 α 1.989 10 R5Q 83 α 2.1 27 R9K 100 α 2 91 R76V 173 α 1.765 47 Y23D 48 α 1.7 68 28 R9L 101 α 1.6 96 P78D 61 α 1.228 73 K73V 155 α 1.071 89 R76S 171 α 1.05 42 76 K75P 158 α ~1 40 57 S70E 136 α 0.9481 50 R65P 129 α 0.9 88 R76Q 170 α 0.7702 51 I66D 130 α 0.6773 94 K77G 176 α 0.658 85 R76M 167 α ~0.6 24 35 R9Y 108 α 0.63 58 S70G 137 α 0.5181 c6 D15A 117 γ 0.4389 64 K73D 146 α 0.4354 c1 R11D 109 γ 0.4113 87 R76P 169 α ~0.4 16 37 Q12D 249 α 0.42 39 Q12N 251 α 0.38 82 R76I 164 α 0.3159 12.636 97 P79D 62 α 0.3152 99 S80P 179 α 0.3089 40 Q12S 252 α 0.32 92 R76Y 174 α 0.2651 98 S80G 178 α 0.265 66 K73G 148 α 0.2528 61 K72G 142 α 0.2502 c7 D15E 118 0.2492 41 Q12T 253 α <0.26 100  R5A 73 α 0.2375 101  S70Y 139 α 0.2366 60 K72D 141 α 0.235 c3 I14A 114 γ 0.2153 c8 D15I 119 γ 0.2151 55 V69G 134 α 0.2148 36 Q12A 111 α 0.23 c4 I14D 115 γ 0.2022 83 R76K 165 α ~0.2 8 84 R76L 166 α ~0.2 8 67 K73H 149 α 0.1901 72 K73S 154 α 0.1667 c5 I14S 116 γ 0.1658 c9 D15M 120 γ 0.1633 75 K75G 157 α 0.1627 46 Q19D 47 α 0.17 c2 R11S 110 γ 0.1346 49 R65G 128 α 0.13 90 R76T 172 α 0.105 44 I16D 125 α 0.094 Anti-PD-1 Ab* — ~0.07-0.092 48 R65D 127 α 0.088 25 R9H 98 α 0.084 69 K73N 151 α 0.07368 65 K73E 147 α 0.07262 45 I16E 126 α 0.076 71 K73Q 153 α 0.06919 63 K73A 145 α 0.0525 68 K73I 150 α 0.1724 54 V69D 133 α 0.03952 38 Q12E 250 α 0.031 huIL-21** — 0.025-0.027 PD-1 Ab*** — NB NB = no detectable binding WB = weak binding (below reliable quantification limit) IL-21 AA substitutions are according to the amino acid position numbering of SEQ ID NO: 1. *anti-PD-1 mAb fused to human IL-21 (no mutations) **Not in a fusion; present as human IL-21 only ***Not in a fusion; present as PD-1 Ab only

Exemplary results of the STAT3 phosphorylation assays using IL-21 muteins are shown in FIG. 7 (muteins with reduced affinity for IL-21Rα) and FIG. 8 (muteins with reduced affinity for IL-21Rγ). As shown in these figures, several muteins demonstrated more than a 20-fold attenuation in IL-21 activity in PD-1−ve cells but retained activity in PD-1+ve cells. As shown in FIGS. 9A-9B, mutant 51 (R65P) (blue circles) was one such mutant that demonstrated a greater than 20× reduction in IL-21 activity in PD^(−ve) cells but exhibited a level of IL-21 activity that was similar to that achieved by rhIL-21 in cells expressing PD-1. A listing of exemplary muteins selected for greater than 20× attenuation of STAT3 signal on PD-1 low/negative cells is provided in Table 5.

TABLE 5 N1 N2 PD-1^(−ve) PD-1^(+ve) PD-1^(−ve) PD-1^(+ve) Affinity fold fold fold fold Mutant SEQ ID for IL-21R Fold Affinity reduction reduction reduction reduction No. AA Sub. NO: (K_(D) (nM)) Reduction¹ (rhIL-21) (rhIL-21) (rhIL-21) (rhIL-21) 20 I8S 93 ~4 160 38.1 4.4 58.8 5.7 42 Q12V 249 <2.2 88 80 2.4 44 6.9 43 L13D 112 11 440 83.8 2.3 25.7 2.6 47 Y23D 48 1.7 68 35.6 1.4 13.7 1.4 70 K73P 152 ~2 80 46.4 1.8 21 1.7 76 K75P 158 ~1 40 25.1 1.7 36 1.6 77 R76A 159 ~11 440 29.9 2.6 20 3 79 R76E 161 18.47 738.8 40.2 2.6 23.2 2.5 80 R76G 162 ~2 80 31.4 1.5 17 1.6 81 R76H 163 ~2 80 23.4 1.5 38.6 1.8 82 R76I 164 0.3159 12.636 25.1 1.5 28.2 1.6 83 R76K 165 ~0.2 8 19.3 1.7 27.4 1.4 84 R76L 166 ~0.2 8 24.4 1.6 29.1 1.5 85 R76M 167 ~0.6 24 21.8 1.4 28.2 1.4 86 R76N 168 15.31 612.4 30.1 3 21.1 4.2 87 R76P 169 ~0.4 16 26.5 1.7 34.4 1.6 89 R76S 171 1.05 42 32.7 1.3 28.9 1.1 C10 D15N 121 11 87.3 16.9 4.1 39.7 4.7 C12 D15S 123 6.6 52.4 16.4 3.2 36.4 3.5 C14 D15V 124 5.471 43.4 20.1 4.7 35 5.7 C18 S113K 67 8.098 64.3 20.8 3.2 42 3.9 C21 Q116E 182 7.949 63.1 26.9 5.4 52.1 6.5 ¹vs. rhIL-21

Example 4

This example demonstrates the selection of candidate IL-21 muteins for use in fusion protein construction and the in vivo testing thereof.

The top 22 performing IL-21 muteins were scaled up for further testing. Based on this further testing (in Hut78 pSTAT3 assays as discussed herein), four candidate fusion proteins were selected so that the collection of four would display a range of attenuation (potency shift, relative to rhIL-21, in Hut78 pSTAT3 assay). Mutant C10 (D15N) represented the low attenuation mutein, Mutant 77 (R76A) represented the intermediate attenuation mutein, and Mutants 79 and 78 (R76E and R76D, respectively) represented the high attenuation mutein. Of the four, three were scaled up for an in vivo study in cynomolgus monkeys to evaluate pharmacokinetic properties of the mutein fusion protein constructs. Single doses (10 mg/kg) of Mutant 79 (R76E), Mutant 77 (R76A), or Mutant C10 (D15N) were administered intravenously (bolus) to naïve cynomolgus monkeys and serum concentrations were collected over a ten day period. For comparison, an anti-PD-1 mAb and a fusion protein comprising the anti-PD-1 mAb and WT IL-21 were dosed (individually) to cynomolgus monkeys by intravenous bolus administration. The study was run with two controls: the anti-PD-1 mAb alone and the fusion protein construct comprising the anti-PD-1 mAb and WT IL-21. As shown in FIG. 10, each of the anti-PD-1 mAb-IL-21 mutein fusion proteins exhibited an altered pharmacokinetic profile, compared to the parent anti-PD-1 mAb (black triangles). Table 6 provides the pharmacokinetic properties fit by noncompartmental analysis.

TABLE 6 Dose C_(15min) AUC_(last) VSS CL Half-life Construct (mg/kg) (μg/mL) (hr*μg/mL) (mL/kg) (mL/hr/kg) (hr) Anti-PD-1 10   53 ± 7   309 ± 50  210 ± 30   33 ± 5   26 ± 13 mAb:IL- 21(R76E)^(a,b) Anti-PD-1 10  4.7 ± 1.4  28.2 ± 9.3  2900 ± 700   380 ± 110   21 ± 14 mAb:IL- 21(R76A)^(a,b) Anti-PD-1 10  2.4 ± 1   8.0 ± 2.8 10000 ± 4000  1400 ± 600   15 ± 9 mAb:IL- 21(D15N)^(a,b) Anti-PD-1 mAb^(a,c) 8.25  200 ± 9  23600 ± 1500   56 ± 5  0.20 ± 0.01  200 ± 18 Anti-PD-1 10 0.27 ± 0.02  0.32 ± .02  5600 ± 800  2900 ± 200  2.8 ± 0.2 mAb:IL-21^(c,d) ^(a) Nonhuman primate study ^(b) Human IL21 capture with human Fc detection ^(c) Human Fc capture with human Fc detection ^(d) Nonhuman primate study

Example 5

This example demonstrates the generation of an IL-21 double mutant panel and the expression and characterization of fusion proteins comprising IL-21 double mutant homodimers (unless otherwise specified).

Three muteins having a single amino acid substitution, including (Mutant No. 77 (R76A) and Mutant No. 79 (R76E), were selected for additional engineering based on cell activity data (e.g., highest attenuation of activity on PD-1^(−ve) Hut78 T cells) and manufacturability. Structure guided engineering was utilized to generate an additional mutation within the IL-21 single mutant sequence (i.e., to generate a double mutant) to further attenuate cytokine binding to the alpha chain of IL-21R (IL-21Rα). The double mutant sequence was fused to the sequence of an anti-PD-1 mAb, and the fusion proteins were expressed and tested in cell assays. A listing of the double mutant fusion proteins made and tested is provided in Table 7.

TABLE 7 Double Mutein No. Amino acid substitutions SEQ ID NO: 1 D15N, I71L 214 2 D15N, K72A 215 3 D15N, K73A 216 4 D15N, S70T 213 5 I71L, K73Q 217 6 I71L, R76A 227 7 I71L, R76D 228 8 I71L, R76E 229 9 K72A, K73Q 218 10 K72A, R76A 230 11 K72A, R76D 231 12 K72A, R76E 232 13 K73A, R76A 233 14 K73A, R76D 234 15 K73A, R76E 235 17 S70T, K73Q 255 18 S70T, R76A 246 19 S70T, R76D 247 20 S70T, R76E 248 21 R9E, R76E 245 22 R9A, R76E 243 23 R5E, R76E 239 24 R5A, R76E 237 25 R5Q, R76E 241 26 R9E, R76A 244 27 R9A, R76A 242 28 R5E, R76A 238 29 R5A, R76A 236 30 R5Q, R76A 240

As double mutant fusion proteins with high attenuation properties were desired, the selection criterion was set at a potency (EC₅₀) greater than 1000 nM on IL-21R-positive, PD-1-negative (PD-1^(−ve)) Hut78 T cells, relative to the potency of rhIL-21. In addition, as with the muteins containing a single amino acid substitution, double mutant fusion proteins were characterized for IL-21R binding (ForteBio Octet). Finally, the double mutant fusion proteins were characterized for PD-1 activity using a Jurkat PD-1 reporter gene assay. The results of these assays are shown in Table 8.

TABLE 8 pSTAT3 pSTAT3 EC50 (nM) EC50 (nM) pSTAT3 pSTAT3 in Hut78 in Hut78 EC50 (nM) EC50 (nM) K_(D) K_(D) K_(D) K_(D) Fusion PD-1⁺ T PD-1⁺ T in Hut78 in Hut78 (nM) (nM) (nM) (nM) protein cells cells PD-1⁻ T cells PD-1⁻ T cells Hu IL- Cyno Hu Cyno tested (n1) (n2) (n1) (n2) 21R IL-21R PD-1 PD-1 rhIL-21 0.085 0.053 0.056 0.050 028-0.037 0. 019-0.051 — — R76A 0.341 0.147 100.277 35.477 >10 >10 7.5 6.4 (biphasic) (biphasic) R76E 0.744 0.376 194.523 122.87 >10 >10 7.2 6.0 (biphasic) (biphasic) R76E 0.197 0.136 23.516 26.965 >10 >10 5.8 7.3 monomeric (biphasic) (biphasic) R5E:R76A 1.979 1.487 >1000 >1000 >300 >300 7.0 5.9 R5Q:R76E 2.211 1.663 >1000 >1000 >300 >300 6.3 6.3 R9E:R76A 16.6 — >1000 >1000 >300 >300 8.9 5.9 Anti-PD-1 — — — — — — 13.4 6.3 mAb hPD1 hPD1 Fusion reporter N1 reporter N2 protein tested (nM) (nM) R76A 1.44 2.17 R76E 0.85 1.68 R76E monomeric 0.685 0.637 R5Q:R76E 0.954 0.942 Anti-PD-1 mAb 1.39 1.77 Hu = Human; Cyno = cynomolgus monkey pSTAT3 EC50 (2.5-fold change) Octet: Binding to immobilized monovalent Human and Cyno IL-21R-his

As shown in Table 8, the double mutant fusion proteins exhibited very low IL-21 activity on T cells expressing low levels of PD-1 (e.g., below detectable levels of PD-1) but retained significant IL-21 activity on PD-1-expressing cells. The double mutant fusion proteins exhibited weak binding to IL-21R (Kd>300 nM), but retained the ability to bind to PD-1 and block PD-1 signaling.

Example 6

This example demonstrates an in vitro primary cell assay comparing a fusion protein comprising an anti-PD-1 mAb and either an IL-21 double mutant homodimer or an IL-21 single mutant homodimer.

A fusion protein comprising an anti-PD-1 mAb and IL-21 with R5Q and R76E amino acid substitutions was tested in an in vitro primary cell assay (a mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR)). The MLR comprised a mixed population of IL-21R⁺ cells, including dendritic cells (DCs) expressing IL-21R but not expressing PD-1, T cells expressing PD-1, and T cells not expressing PD-1. The MLR was exposed to (i) the fusion protein comprising R5Q and R76E amino acid substitutions, (ii) the fusion protein comprising only the R76E amino acid substitution, (iii) recombinant human IL-21 (rHu IL-21), (iv) anti-PD-1 mAb, (v) a combination of rHu IL-21 and anti-PD-1 mAb, or (vi) a control IgG.

As shown in FIG. 11, rhIL-21 suppressed DC function and is dominant over the PD-1 response when co-dosed. The fusion protein comprising the IL-21 double mutein with attenuated activity exhibited reduced off-target activity. Also, each of rhIL-21 and the fusion protein comprising only R76E amino acid substitution exhibited significant off-target activity on DCs and suppressed cytokine production. In contrast, the PD-1 mAb and fusion protein comprising R5Q and R76E amino acid substitutions only delivered IL-21 signals to target PD-1^(+ve) T cells (and not PD-1^(−ve) dendritic cells) and retained the ability (through the PD-1 arm) to augment cytokine production. Accordingly, these results suggest that fusion proteins comprising the IL-21 double mutant have reduced immune-suppression and detrimental impacts on DC priming and may allow for the recruitment of new T cell clones and more durable antitumor immune responses.

Example 7

This example demonstrates the activity of different fusion proteins comprising IL-21 double muteins (homodimers) and an anti-PD-1 mAb on primary cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). Endogenous STAT3 phosphorylation in primary CTLs (CMV-reactive CTL lines from a human donor) was measured by FACs and was used as a measure of IL-21 signaling. After resting CTLs for 48 hours (in order to reduce expression of PD-1), the cells were exposed (for 10 min) to (i) a fusion protein comprising an IL-21 R5E/R76A double mutein (red line in left graph), (ii) a fusion protein comprising an IL-21 R5Q/R76E double mutein (red line in middle graph), (iii) a fusion protein comprising an IL-21 R9E/R76A double mutein (red line in right graph), (iv) an IgG1 control (grey line in each graph), (v) rhIL-21 (blue line in each graph), (vi) an anti-PD-1 mAb (solid green line in each graph), (vii) a combination of rhIL-21 and anti-PD-1 mAb (dotted green line in each graph), or (viii) a fusion protein comprising an IL-21 R76E single mutein (purple line in each graph). The FACs results are shown in FIGS. 12A-12C. The IL-21 activity of each fusion protein comprising an IL-21 double mutein is plotted against the activity achieved with (iv) an IgG1 control, (v) rhIL-21, (vi) anti-PD-1 mAb, (vii) a combination of rhIL-21 and anti-PD-1 mAb, and (viii) a fusion protein comprising an IL-21 R76E single mutein. This primary cell assay demonstrates that the double mutant fusions weakly stimulate IL-21-induced STAT3 signaling in resting CTLs (which express low levels of PD-1). IL-21 activity is most attenuated with the double mutein fusions (and is similar to that seen with the anti-PD-1 mAb and IgG1 control), with the single mutant fusion exhibiting moderate IL-21 activity attenuation, and the combination of rhIL-21 and anti-PD-1 mAb having similar activity to rhIL-21.

The effect of fusion proteins comprising an anti-PD-1 mAb and IL-21 double mutein homodimers on CTL-mediated cell cytotoxicity function upon chronic stimulation was also explored. CTLs were activated with CD3/CD28 and were exposed to (i) a fusion protein comprising IL-21 R5E/R76A double mutein, (ii) a fusion protein comprising an IL-21 R5Q/R76E double mutein, (iii) a fusion protein comprising an IL-21 R9E/R76A double mutein, (iv) an IgG4 control, (v) rhIL-21, (vi) anti-PD-1 mAb, or (vii) a combination of rhIL-21 and anti-PD-1 mAb. After seven days of stimulation the cells were co-cultured with a CMV peptide pulsed melanoma cancer cell line and cytotoxicity was measured. The results of this assay are shown in FIGS. 13A-13C.

As shown in FIGS. 13A-13C, the fusion proteins are able to sustain CTL function in a superior manner compared to anti-PD-1 mAb monotherapy. IL-21 muteins fusion proteins can sustain CTL mediated cell cytotoxicity function upon chronic stimulation. These results support the idea that IL-21 can sustain CTL function under conditions of chronic activation as is observed in cancer. Delivery of IL-21 to PD-1+ antigen specific T cells can selectively sustain the function of a population of T cells which drives therapeutic efficacy.

Example 8

This example demonstrates the in vivo pharmacokinetics with the double mutein constructs.

Fusion proteins comprising an anti-PD-1 mAb and either an IL-21 double mutein or an IL-21 single mutein were administered to naïve cynomolgus monkeys by intravenous bolus administration to characterize drug exposure. Table 9 shows the dose of each construct administered to the animals. The single mutein variant (IL-21 R76E) was tested in vivo as a homodimer and monomer to better understand how exposure can be further improved.

Serum concentration-time profiles for PD-1 mAb and PD-1:IL-21 fusions following intravenous bolus administration to naïve cynomolgus monkeys are shown in FIG. 14 with drug exposures observed the first week after administration listed in Table 9.

TABLE 9 AUC₀₋₁₆₈/Dose Animal Dose (hr*kg*μg/ Number: Construct: (mg/kg) mL/mg) PD-1 mAb ^(a, b) 8.25 2260 ± 150  PD-1:IL-21(R76A) homodimer ^(a, c) 10 2.82 ± 0.93 803 & 804 PD-1:IL-21(R5E/R76A) 5 39.1 ± 14.0 homodimer ^(d, e) 801 & 802 PD-1:IL-21(R76E) homodimer ^(d, e) 5 38.0 ± 19.6 807 & 808 PD-1:IL-21(R76E) monovalent ^(d, e) 5 195 ± 4.8  805 & 806 PD-1:IL-21(R5Q/R76E) 5 114 ± 14  homodimer ^(c, d) ^(a) Nonhuman primate study ^(b) Human Fc capture with human Fc detection ^(c) Human IL-21 capture with human Fc detection ^(d) Nonhuman primate study ^(e) PD-1 capture with human IL21 detection

As shown in Table 9, the monomeric R76E fusion protein exhibited superior exposure upon intravenous dosing as compared to the homodimer R76E fusion protein. Fusion proteins comprising the IL-21 double muteins (R5Q/R76E and R5E/R76A) observed greater exposures than parental single mutein homodimer fusion protein constructs (R76E and R76A, respectively) (FIG. 14; Table 9).

Pharmacodynamic (PD) parameters were also tested in vivo in cynomolgus monkeys. PD-1 expression was determined using non-competing antibody for PD-1 and this PD-1 sampling occurred at Day −5, Day 7, and Day 21. Animals were given a first dose of (i) a fusion protein comprising an anti-PD-1 mAb and a homodimer of an IL-21 R76E single mutein, (ii) a fusion protein comprising an anti-PD-1 mAb and a monomer of an IL-21 R76E single mutein, or (iii) a fusion protein comprising an anti-PD-1 mAb and an IL-21 R5Q/R76E double mutein on Day 1, and a second dose on Day 8. See FIG. 15A.

FIGS. 15B-15D show the fold change in PD-1-positive/CD4-positive cells (relative to Day −5) as measured on Day 7 (FIG. 15B), the fold change in PD-1-positive/CD8-positive cells (relative to Day −5) as measured on Day 7 (FIG. 15C), and the fold change in PD-1-positive/CD8-positive cells (relative to Day −5) as measured on Day 21 (FIG. 15D).

As shown in FIGS. 15B-15D, even a single dose of the fusion protein comprising an anti-PD-1 mAb and an IL-21 double mutant expands peripheral PD-1+/CD8+ T cells. This study demonstrated that double mutant fusion proteins are able to significantly expand PD-1+ CD8 T cells in superior manner to single mutein parental variants.

PD biomarkers were also examined for differences and the data suggest that monomeric construct has lower target coverage and PD responses upon single dose administration but equivalent changes in PD and target coverage upon multi dose administration. These data suggest that PK properties of fusion proteins may be further improved with a monomeric format.

As shown in FIG. 16, receptor occupancy (RO) on CD8+ cells generally correlated with PD-1+ CD8 T cell expansion for the double mutants (Animals 803, 805, 806). Single mutant homodimer constructs (Animals 801, 802) failed to expand PD-1+ CD8 T cells, likely due to their relatively poor pharmacokinetic properties. Notably, double mutein constructs, which have more desirable pharmacokinetic properties, expanded PD-1+ CD8 T cells and PD responses correlated with target coverage. The data suggest that double mutant fusion proteins can expand a relevant T cell population known to be involved in protective anti-tumor immunity.

FIG. 17 shows that PD-1 target coverage in CD8+ T cells upon repeat dosing is similar to what is observed for an anti-PD-1 mAb (anti-PD-1 mAb data not shown). Collectively, with respect to the double mutants, FIGS. 16 and 17 support the idea that modulation of the target population (PD-1+ CD8 T cells) requires sufficient target coverage and that improved target coverage is correlated with improved pharmacodynamics responses.

Example 9

This example demonstrates the generation of a panel of fusion proteins comprising different anti-PD-1 mAbs fused to varying homodimeric IL-21 double muteins.

A panel of anti-PD-1 mAbs were generated and tested as described in Example 12 and lead mAbs were fused to certain IL-21 double muteins. Twelve fusion proteins comprising homodimeric IL-21 double muteins and anti-PD-1 mAbs were tested for IL-21 activity in both PD-1^(−ve) and PD-1^(+ve) Hut78 T-cells using the STAT3 phosphorylation assay, IL-21R binding and PD-1 binding using the ForteBio Octet assay, PD-1 activity using the PD-1 Jurkat reporter assay, and in vitro activity using the MLR (mixed lymphocyte reaction) assay. These experiments were carried out as essentially described in the previous examples.

A list of the twelve fusion proteins comprising an anti-PD-1 mAb and an IL-21 double mutein and their activities as measured in these assays are provided in Tables 10-12.

TABLE 10 IL-21 activity as measured by STAT3 phosphorylation assay Amino Acid Hut78 (n1) Hut78 (n2) Hut78 (n1) Hut78 (n2) Subs of IL-21 PD-1+ve PD-1+ve PD-1−ve PD-1−ve PD-1 mAb Double mutein EC50 (nM) EC50 (nM) EC50 (nM) EC50 (nM) A-1-003 (R5A, R76E) 7.55 14.74 >1000 >1000 (20A2.003) A-1-003 (R5Q, R76E) 3.37 16.9 >1000 >1000 (20A2.003) A-1-003 (R5E, R76A) 5.70 25.07 618.28 >1000 (20A2.003) A-1-003 (R9E, R76A) 25.26 59.10 >1000 >1000 (20A2.003) A-4-006 (R5A, R76E) 7.40 15.33 >1000 >1000 (20C1.006) A-3-009 (R5Q, R76E) 3.75 16.39 >1000 >1000 (20C1.009) A-3-009 (R5E, R76A) 5.27 10.71 471.56 >1000 (20C1.009) A-3-009 (R9E, R76A) 19.44 56.43 >1000 >1000 (20C1.009) A-2-006 (R5A, R76E) 6.90 8.04 >1000 >1000 (22D4.006) A-2-006 (R5Q, R76E) 4.45 10.32 >1000 >1000 (22D4.006) A-2-006 (R5E, R76A) 5.34 13.11 652.02 826.11 (22D4.006) A-2-006 (R9E, R76A) 17.41 45.63 >1000 >1000 (22D4.006) rhIL-21(av) — 0.15 0.625 0.22 0.715 Anti-PD-1 — — — — mAb (IgG4 isotype) Anti-PD-1 — — — — mAb (IgG1 isotype) 2nd — — — — Anti-PD-1 mAb (IgG4 isotype)

TABLE 11 IL-21R binding and PD-1 binding Amino Acid Subs of IL-21 IL-21R IL-21R hPD-1 CyPD-1 Double Hu Kd Cy Kd Kd Kd PD-1 mAb mutein (nM) (nM) (nM) (nM) A-1-003 (R5A, R76E) >300 >300 1.9 3.1 (20A2.003) A-1-003 (R5Q, R76E) >300 >300 2.4 2.6 (20A2.003) A-1-003 (R5E, R76A) >300 >300 4.4 4.7 (20A2.003) A-1-003 (R9E, R76A) >300 >300 1.5 3.3 (20A2.003) A-4-006 (R5A, R76E) >300 >300 0.8 1.6 (20C1.006) A-3-009 (R5Q, R76E) >300 >300 0.7 1.4 (20C1.009) A-3-009 (R5E, R76A) >300 >300 0.9 2.3 (20C1.009) A-3-009 (R9E, R76A) >300 >300 0.7 1.7 (20C1.009) A-2-006 (R5A, R76E) >300 >300 1.0 1.5 (22D4.006) A-2-006 (R5Q, R76E) >300 >300 1.2 1.4 (22D4.006) A-2-006 (R5E, R76A) >300 >300 1.2 1.0 (22D4.006) A-2-006 (R9E, R76A) >300 >300 1.3 1.3 (22D4.006) rhIL-21(av) — 0.038 <0.010 — — Anti-PD-1 — — ~9 ~9 mAb (IgG4 isotype) Anti-PD-1 — — ~6 ~4 mAb (IgG1 isotype) 2nd Anti-PD-1 — — 2.4 1.0 mAb (IgG4 isotype)

TABLE 12 PD-1 activity and MLR Amino Acid Subs of hPD-1 hPD-1 IL-21 reporter reporter MLR N1 MLR N2 Double N1 N1 IL-2 IL-2 PD-1 mAb mutein (nM) (nM) (nM) (nM) A-1-003 (R5A, R76E) 0.748 0.622 3.438 2.198 (20A2.003) A-1-003 (R5Q, R76E) 0.997 0.805 4.021 1.821 (20A2.003) A-1-003 (R5E, R76A) 0.344 0.47  2.472 1.397 (20A2.003) A-1-003 (R9E, R76A) 0.788 0.712 2.872 1.252 (20A2.003) A-4-006 (R5A, R76E) — — — — (20C1.006) A-3-009 (R5Q, R76E) 0.472 0.738 1.04  1.186 (20C1.009) A-3-009 (R5E, R76A) 0.445 0.46  0.345 0.77  (20C1.009) A-3-009 (R9E, R76A) 0.669 0.409 1.191 0.68  (20C1.009) A-2-006 (R5A, R76E) 0.331 0.269 0.469 0.88  (22D4.006) A-2-006 (R5Q, R76E) 0.369 0.255 0.769 0.458 (22D4.006) A-2-006 (R5E, R76A) 0.281 0.177 0.59  0.31  (22D4.006) A-2-006 (R9E, R76A) 0.429 0.112 1.042 0.446 (22D4.006) rhIL-21(av) — — — — — Anti-PD-1 1.915 2.905 1.354 3.216 mAb (IgG4 isotype) Anti-PD-1 — — — — mAb (IgG1 isotype) 2nd Anti-PD-1 0.555 0.695 0.627 0.708 mAb (IgG4 isotype)

Most if not all candidates performed as well if not better than two anti-PD-1 mAbs. Several demonstrated potencies for PD-1 activity and in the MLR assay that were greater than or equal to the potency of the anti-PD-1 mAb.

Of the 12 candidates, two were selected as for further studies. One of the two had the IL-21 double mutein comprising R5Q/R76E mutations and the second had the IL-21 double mutein comprising R9E/R76A mutations. Different anti-PD-1 mAbs from the PD-1 mAb panel were used to make a fusion protein with one of the two IL-21 muteins. Ten anti-PD-1 mAbs were used in the R5Q/R76E fusion proteins, including the 20A2.003 (orange diamond), 20C1.006 (red square), 20C1.009 (green triangle), and 22D4.006 (dark purple circle) anti-PD-1 mAbs. Seven anti-PD-1 mAbs were used in the R9E/R76A fusion proteins, including the 20A2.003 (purple triangle), 20C1.006 (red square), 20C1.009 (green triangle), and 22D4.006 (black circle) anti-PD-1 mAbs. The fusion proteins were tested for IL-21 activity using the STAT3 phosphorylation assay, as essentially described herein. FIGS. 18A-18B and 19A-19B show the activities in PD-1^(−ve) and PD-1^(+ve) HUT78 T cells, relative to rhIL-21 signals (hot pink line). As shown in these figures, the fusion proteins exhibited >1000× attenuation in PD-1^(−ve) HUT78 T cells but retained potency in PD-1^(+ve) HUT78 T cells.

Example 10

This example demonstrates the generation of a panel of fusion proteins comprising different anti-PD-1 mAbs fused to varying monomeric and homodimeric IL-21 double muteins.

A panel of fusion proteins comprising an anti-PD-1 mAb and either a monomeric or homodimeric IL-21 double mutein was generated. A list of the fusion proteins comprising an anti-PD-1 mAb and an IL-21 double mutein are provided in Table 13.

TABLE 13 SEQ ID NO: Amino Acid IL-21 Mutein: of IL-21 Subs of IL-21 Homodimer mutein portion of PD-1 mAb Double mutein or Monomer fusion protein A-2-006 V4 (22D4.006 V4) R5E/R76A Monomer 238 A-2-006 V4 (22D4.006 V4) R9E/R76A Monomer 244 A-2-006 V4 (22D4.006 V4) R5A/R76E Monomer 237 A-2-006 V4 (22D4.006 V4) R5Q/R76E Monomer 241 A-2-006 (22D4.006) R5E/R76A Homodimer 238 A-2-006 (22D4.006) R9E/R76A Homodimer 244 A-2-006 (22D4.006) R5A/R76E Homodimer 237 A-2-006 (22D4.006) R5Q/R76E Homodimer 241 A-2-006 V106 (22D4.006 V106) R5Q/R76E Monomer 241 A-2-006 V112 R5Q/R76E Monomer 241 A-2-006 V106 (22D4.006 V106) R9E/R76A Monomer 244 A-2-006 V112 ((22D4.006 V112) R9E/R76A Monomer 244 A-1-003 V4 (20A2.003 V4) R5E/R76A Monomer 238 A-1-003 V4 (20A2.003 V4) R9E/R76A Monomer 244 A-1-003 V4 (20A2.003 V4) R5A/R76E Monomer 237 A-1-003 V4 (20A2.003 V4) R5Q/R76E Monomer 241 A-1-003 (20A2.003) R5E/R76A Homodimer 238 A-1-003 (20A2.003) R9E/R76A Homodimer 244 A-1-003 (20A2.003) R5A/R76E Homodimer 237 A-1-003 (20A2.003) R5Q/R76E Homodimer 241 A-1-003 V106 (20A2.003 V106) R5Q/R76E Monomer 241 A-1-003 V112 (20A2.003 V112) R5Q/R76E Monomer 241 A-1-003 V106 (20A2.003 V106) R9E/R76A Monomer 244 A-1-003 V112 (20A2.003 V112) R9E/R76A Monomer 244 rhIL-21(av) — Anti-PD-1 mAb (IgG4 isotype) Anti-PD-1 mAb (IgG1 isotype) 2nd Anti-PD-1 mAb (IgG4 isotype)

The fusion proteins were tested for IL-21 activity in both PD-1^(−ve) and PD-1^(+ve) Hut78 T-cells using the STAT3 phosphorylation assay, IL-21R binding and PD-1 binding using the ForteBio Octet assay, PD-1 activity using the PD-1 Jurkat reporter assay, and in vitro activity using the MLR assay. These experiments were carried out as essentially described in the previous examples. The activities as measured in these in vitro assays is shown FIGS. 20-23.

FIGS. 20A-20D represent the amount of pSTAT3 signaling observed with several anti-PD-1 mAb-IL-21 monomeric or homodimeric double mutein fusions. pSTAT3 signaling stimulated with rhIL-21 is shown in red at the top of the graphs, while pSTAT3 signaling stimulated with an IgG1 control is shown in grey (bottom of graphs) and with an IgG2 control is shown in orange (bottom of graphs). Anti-PD-1 mAb-(present as mAb; i.e., not as a fusion) stimulated pSTAT3 signaling is shown in green (bottom of graphs). pSTAT3 signaling stimulated with control anti-PD-1 mAbs is shown in orange and yellow (bottom of graphs), while the remaining lines represent the pSTAT3 signaling achieved upon stimulation with anti-PD-1 mAb-IL-21 monomeric or dimeric double mutein fusions (with various charge pair mutations) wherein the double mutants are R5E/R76A; R9E/R76A; R5A/R76E or R5Q/R76E. As shown in this set of figures, rhIL-21 demonstrates activity in both PD-1^(−ve) and PD-1^(+ve) cells. In contrast, monomeric and homodimeric double mutein fusions are able to demonstrate pSTAT3 (IL-21-based) activity only in PD-1^(+ve) cells and not in PD-1^(−ve) cells. Thus, monomeric fusions with IL-21 double mutants exhibit similar levels of IL-21 activity attenuation in PD-1^(−ve) cells and IL-21 activity rescue in PD-1^(+ve) cells as their counterpart dimeric fusions.

The fusion proteins evaluated in FIGS. 20A-20D were tested in a PD-1 reporter gene assay (RGA; FIGS. 21A and 21B) and an MLR assay (FIGS. 21C and 21D). The results shown in FIGS. 21A-21D demonstrate that anti-PD-1 mAb-IL-21 monomeric and dimeric double mutein fusions are able to induce PD-1 activity.

The results of pSTAT3 assays testing the same anti-PD-1 mAb-IL-21 monomeric and dimeric double mutein fusions constructs as those in FIGS. 20A-20D, except with a different anti-PD-1 mAb, are shown in FIGS. 22A-22D. The results in FIGS. 22A-22D are similar to those seen in FIGS. 20A-20D.

The results of PD-1 reporter gene assays and MLR assays testing the same anti-PD-1 mAb-IL-21 monomeric and dimeric double mutein fusions constructs as those in FIGS. 21A-21D, except with a different anti-PD-1 mAb, are shown in FIGS. 23A-23D.

These data demonstrate that a fusion protein comprising an IL-21 double mutein may not require a homodimer configuration for partial attenuation. The following double muteins (fused as monomers or homodimers) to an anti-PD-1 mAb (Table 14) were selected for further evaluation.

TABLE 14 . IL-21 mutein Format A-2-017 (22D4.017) R5Q:R76E homodimer A-2-017 (22D4.017) R5Q:R76E V1 monomer A-2-017 (22D4.017) R9E:R76A Homodimer A-2-017 (22D4.017) R9E:R76A V1 monomer

The cell based data suggest that these muteins when fused to a PD-1 antibody can selectively target T cells (demonstrated using T cell lines) expressing PD-1 receptor. These bifunctional PD-1×IL-21 molecules have unique properties acquired from each arm of the fusion molecule (anti PD-1 mAb and IL-21 mutein).

Example 11

The following materials and methods were used in the examples.

Generation of Anti-PD-1 Ab-IL-21 Mutein Fusions

Recombinant anti-PD-1 Ab-IL-21 mutein sequences were cloned into pTT5 for transient expression in HEK293-6E or a vector containing an antibiotic selection cassette for stable expression in CHO-K1 cells. Expression productions were performed for 5-7 days at 36° C. and the supernatant was harvested for purification. All protein lots were purified by Protein A affinity chromatography (Mab Select SuRe) followed by cation exchange (SP Sepharose HP) and buffer exchange (UF/DF) into A5.2Su buffer. All lots were >95% main peak by size exclusion chromatography with endotoxin <0.2 EU/mg (Endosafe LAL, Charles River).

Jurkat PD-1 Reporter Gene Assays

GloResponse Jurkat NFAT-luc2/PD-1 stable effector cells (Promega, #CS187102) and the CHO PD-L1 stable cell line (Promega, #CS178103) were co-cultured at a ratio of 1.25:1 in the presence of serially diluted antibodies in triplicate for 6 hours at 37° C., 5% CO². Luminescence was measured using Bio-Glo Luciferase Assay System (Promega, #G7940).

STAT3 Phosphorylation Assays

pSTAT3 AlphaScreen.

HuT 78 parental and HuT 78 PD-1 stable cell lines were then seeded onto separate plates at 40,000 cells per well in the presence of serially diluted antibodies in triplicate for 40 minutes at 37° C., 5% CO₂. Pstat3 Tyr705 levels were measured using AlphaLisa Surefire Ultra Pstat3 (Tyr705) Assay Kit (Perkin Elmer, #ALSU-PST3-A10K).

HTRF phospho-STAT3 assay.

Cells were serum starved overnight in RPMI 1860 media supplemented with 1% L-glutamine (HyClone Cat# SH30034.01). Cells were then resuspended in phenol red-free Hanks' Balanced Salt Solution without calcium and magnesium (HBSS; ThermoFisher Cat#14175095) at 2.5×10⁶ cells/mL and 8 uL/well was plated onto 384-well small volume white plate (Perkin Elmer Cat#6008289). Cells were then stimulated with 4 uL/well of IL-21 mutein molecules diluted in HBSS at 37° C. for 40 minutes. STAT3 phosphorylation was detected using HTRF® phosphor-STAT3 (Tyr705) assay kit accordingly to manufacturer's recommendation (Cisbio Cat#64NT3PEH). FRET signal from the assay was detected using EnVision Multilable Plate Reader (Perkin Elmer). Data were analyzed by first determining the HTRF ratio as recommended by Cisbio and then calculating fold over background values using data from unstimulated cells. For each experiment, dosing curves were plotted and potency of a given molecule is represented as the concentration at which a defined fold over background value was observed.

Mixed Lymphocyte Reaction (MLR)

Mismatched donor pair leukopaks were obtained from AllCells Inc. Donor's T cells were isolated using Pan T-cell Isolation Kit (Milteny Biotec, #130-096-535) and a mismatched donor's monocytes were isolated using Pan Monocyte Isolation Kit (Miltenyi Biotec, #130-096-537). Monocytes were further matured for 10 days using CellXVivo Human Monocyte-Derived Dendritic Cell Differentiation Kit (R&D Systems, #CDK004). Pan-T cells were co-cultured with matured monocytes at a ratio of 10:1 in the presence of serially diluted antibodies in triplicate for 72 hours at 37° C., 5% CO². Supernatant IL-2 levels were measured by ELISA (Mesoscale Discoveries, #K151QQD-4).

IL-21R and PD-1 Binding Assays

Human and Cynomolgus Monkey IL-21R Binding Affinity:

Both monovalent IL-21R-FLAG-His and bivalent IL-21R-Fc recombinant reagents were tested but produced very similar results (within ˜2-3 fold). The recombinant soluble IL-21R reagents were minimally biotinylated and captured on Streptavidin SAX tips to a 2.0 nm loading level. The tips were then incubated in wells where the PD-1 antibody-IL-21 samples were 3-fold serially diluted. For wildtype IL-21 fusions, the top sample concentration was 10 nM, while for IL-21 mutein fusions the top sample concentration was 300 nM. An association time of 20 minutes and a dissociation time of 1.5 hour was used to maximize curvature in the binding graphs in order to get accurate kinetic fits.

Human and Cynomolgus Monkey PD-1 Binding Affinity:

Human and cynomolgus monkey PD-1 binding affinity were tested by first capturing the PD-1 antibody-IL-21 samples through EDC-NHS amine coupling to AR2G tips; sample loading was typically at pH 6 for 2000 seconds followed by quenching with 1 M Enthanolamine in order to immobilize at least a 2 nm level. Once samples were immobilized, the tips were then incubated in wells containing a 3-fold serial dilution of soluble, recombinant receptors human PD-1(1-170)-FLAG-His or cynomolgus monkey PD-1(1-167)-FLAG-His. In both cases, top PD-1 concentration was 30 nM. Association for 300 seconds and dissociation for 500 seconds were used since they produced enough curvature for accurate kinetic fits.

The above human/cynomolgus monkey IL-21R and human/cynomolgus monkey PD-1 binding affinities were quantitated with ForteBio Octet HTX and RED384 instruments. In all cases, standard Octet sample buffer was used for sample dilution and for all binding baseline, association and dissociation steps (10 mM Tris, pH 7.5, 150 mM NaCl, 1 mM CaCl2, 0.10 mg·ml BSA, 0.13% (v/v) Triton X-100).

All ForteBio raw data was processed in the following manner using the standard instrument data analysis software (v9 and v10): (a) two reference tip curves which had immobilized target but no interaction (i.e. buffer only) were averaged and subtracted from the remaining sample tips curves in the same column; (b) the association and dissociation curves were isolated and aligned to the Y axis; (c) the association and dissociation interstep were aligned; (d) Savitzky-Golay filtering was implemented to reduce the signal noise and (e) the resulting set of association and dissociation curves for each sample-target interaction were globally fit with a single 1:1 binding model to determine the measured values of the association rate constant k_(a) and the dissociation rates constants k_(d); the equilibrium dissociation constant K_(D) was calculated as a ration of the dissociation and association rates constants (=k_(d)/k_(a)).

Example 12

This example describes the generation of anti-PD-1 mAbs for use in the fusion proteins comprising IL-21 muteins.

Generation of Anti-PD-1 Immune Responses

Mouse Strains

Fully human antibodies to human PD-1 were generated by immunizing XENOMOUSE® transgenic mice (U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,114,598; 6,162,963; 6,833,268; 7,049,426; 7,064,244, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety; Green et al., 1994, Nature Genetics 7:13-21; Mendez et al., 1997, Nature Genetics 15:146-156; Green and Jakobovits, 1998, J. Ex. Med, 188:483-495; Kellerman and Green, Current Opinion in Biotechnology 13, 593-597, 2002). Animals from the XMG4-K and XMG4-KL XENOMOUSE® strains were used for these immunizations.

Immunizations

A cell-based route of immunization was used to generate anti-human PD-1 immune responses. CHO-S cells were transiently transfected with either human PD-1 fused through a Gly-Ser-Ser linker to an E3K T cell epitope tag or cynomolgus PD-1 as a source of immunogen. Animals were immunized with either of these transiently transfected CHO cells mixed Alum with CpG-ODN, 13 times over 8 weeks using TIP (base of tail and intraperitoneal) injections. The initial boost was comprised of 4 million cells expressing human PD-1 while subsequent boosts contained 2 million cells expressing human or cynomolgus PD-1. A total of 9 immunizations were performed with human PD-1 (1-6, 8, 10 and 13) and the remaining 4 immunizations were performed with cynomolgus PD-1. Animals were bled after the 10^(th) boost to assess PD-1-specific titers.

PD-1-specific serum titers were monitored by live-cell FACS analysis on an Accuri flow cytometer. Briefly, HEK293 cells were mock-transfected or transiently transfected with either human or cynomolgus PD-1. Sera from immunized animals was diluted 100-fold and incubated on the transfected cells for 1 hour on ice. The cells were then washed to remove unbound antibodies and a secondary anti-human Fc specific antibody labeled with Cy5 was incubated on the cells for an additional 15 minutes at 4 degrees. The cells were washed once to remove unbound secondary antibody and fluorescent signal on the cells was quantitated by FACS. Animals with the highest antigen-specific serum native titers directed against human and cynomolgus PD-1 were used for hybridoma generation (Kohler and Milstein, 1975).

Immunogen Adjuvant Strain Harvest Human PD-1 or cynomolgus PD-1 Alum + G4K 4 mice transiently transfected into CHO-S CpG ODN G4KL 4 mice

Preparation of Monoclonal Antibodies

Hybridoma Generation

Animals exhibiting suitable serum titers were identified and lymphocytes were obtained from spleen and/or draining lymph nodes. Pooled lymphocytes (from each harvest) were dissociated from lymphoid tissue by grinding in a suitable medium (for example, Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM); Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.). B cells were selected and/or expanded using standard methods, and fused with a suitable fusion partner using techniques that were known in the art.

Membrane Prep Generation:

20 million 293T cells were transfected with pTT5-mini4:huPD-1::GSS:E3K using 293fectin™ Transfection Reagent (Thermo Fisher, Cat: 12347019). 24 hours after transfection, the 293T cells were biotinylated by incubating them in pH8.6 PBS containing EZ-Link™ NHS-LC-LC-Biotin (Thermo Fisher Cat: 21343) at 400 μg/mL for 30 minutes. The cells were then washed in neutral pH PBS and then resuspended in hypotonic buffer containing EDTA free protease inhibitor and 10% triton X100. Cells were broken up by repeatedly pumping them through a syringe with 26 gauge needle. Cell fragments were pelleted by centrifuging at 12000G for 20 minutes. The supernatant containing membrane particles was then collected and washed 3 times with PBS in Amicon Ultracel 100k centrifugal column (Millipore, Cat# UFC810024) to remove detergent. The membrane preps were then tested on tracking hits (positive control hybridoma cells with specificity to PD-1) to check for IgG correlated membrane prep binding. Membrane prep were then aliquoted and frozen down at −20 degrees Celsius until use.

Antigen Specific Staining of Hybridoma Cells:

Hybridoma cells were removed from the flask and washed in sterile FACS buffer (2% FBS PBS). Cells were then mixed with PD-1 membrane prep (diluted 1:10 in FACS buffer, 1 mL reaction volume, e.g. 100 μL membrane prep in 900 μL FACS buffer) and incubated at 4 degrees Celsius for 1 hour. Cells were washed again in FACS buffer and stained with 1 mL of detection cocktail containing 5 μg/mL of Alexa Fluor 488 conjugated F(ab′)2 fragment goat anti-human IgG Fc (Jackson, Cat: 109-546-098) and Alexa Fluor 647 conjugated streptavidin (Jackson, Cat: 016-600-084) then incubated at 4 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes in the dark. Cells were washed again in FACS buffer, resuspended in media and then put through a 40 micron cell strainer to remove aggregated cells. Antigen specific cells were sorted using BD FACSAria 3 by gating on population exhibiting both Alexa Fluor 488 and Alexa Fluor 647 fluorescence (IgG+ and antigen binding cells).

The sorted cells were allowed to culture for a few days in hybridoma media. A small sample of the enriched cells were taken out and tested for binding to PD-1 membrane prep using same staining conditions as mentioned above. After confirming the successful enrichment of PD-1 specific cells, the hybridomas were then single cell sorted into 384-well microtiter plates using BD FACSAria 3. After 2 weeks of culture, supernatants from the microtiter plates were collected and screened for PD-1 binding.

Initial Selection of PD-1 Specific Binding Antibodies

Exhausted hybridoma supernatants were tested for binding to human PD-1 transiently expressed on HEK293 cells by Cell Insight. Briefly, HEK293 cells were transiently transfected with a mammalian expression construct encoding PD-1 using 293Fectin. The following day, 15 μL of exhausted hybridoma media was added to each well of a 384 well FMAT plate. Then, the transfected HEK293 cells (0.27 million/mL), the nuclear stain Hoechst 33342 (7.5 μg/mL) and a secondary detection antibody (0.75 μg/mL—Goat anti Human IgG (H+L) Alexa 488 (Jackson ImmunoResearch)) were mixed and 30 μL of this mixture was added to each well of a 384 well FMAT plate. After ˜3 hours, the supernatant was aspirated using an AquaMax plate reader and 30 μL of FACS buffer was added to each well using a multidrop instrument. The plates were placed on a Big Bear Plate shaker to evenly distribute the cells in the well and then read on the Cell Insight platform using the Cell Health Bio-App. This analysis led to the identification of 383 antigen-specific antibodies from this harvest.

Jurkat Human PD-1/NFAT-Luciferase Reporter Assay

Jurkat cells stably expressing human PD-1 and NFAT-luciferase reporter (Promega) were cultured in RPMI 1640 medium (Sigma) supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum (Sigma), 2 mM L-glutamine (Sigma), 10 mM HEPES (Hyclone, GE Healthcare Life Sciences), 500 μg/mL geneticin (Gibco Life Technologies), 100 μg/mL hygromycin B (Invitrogen) at 37° C./5% CO₂. Jurkat cells stably expressing cynomolgus PD-1 and NFAT-luciferase reporter (Promega) were cultured in RPMI 1640 medium (Sigma) supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum (Sigma), 2 mM L-glutamine (Sigma), 10 mM HEPES (Hyclone, GE Healthcare Life Sciences), 200 μg/mL hygromycin B (Invitrogen), 300 μg/mL zeocin (Invitrogen) at 37° C./5% CO₂. Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) clonal cell line 99 stably expressing human PD-L1 (Promega) were cultured in Nutrient Mixture F12 HAM (Sigma), 10% fetal bovine serum, 10 mM HEPES, 250 μg/mL geneticin, 200 μg/mL hygromycin B at 37° C./5% CO₂. On the day of experiment, the Jurkat NFAT-luciferase/PD-1 cells and the CHO Clone 99 PD-L1 cells (detached with trypsin) were centrifuged at 200×g for 5 minutes, and resuspended in assay medium (RPMI 1640 medium, 2% fetal bovine serum, 15 mM HEPES). Test molecules were diluted and titrated using the assay buffer in 384-well black/clear bottom assay plates (Corning). The prepared cells were seeded at 40,000 cells/well total by first mixing the prepared cells at a 1:1 ratio, and then adding the cell mixture to the assay plates. The plates were incubated for 18 to 24 hours at 37° C./5% CO₂. The amount of luciferase produced was measured by Bio-Glo Luciferase Assay System reagent (Promega), after which the plates were incubated for 20 minutes at room temperature, and luminescence detected with EnVision plate reader (PerkinElmer). For single point assay, ESN samples were first quantitated, normalized and tested at 0.5 μg/mL. For potency determination, ESN samples or purified antibodies were serially titrated 3-fold in assay media and used to treat human or cynomolgus PD-1 reporter cells. The number of antibodies showing desired activity during single concentration screening and potency ranking are show in Table 15.

TABLE 15 Single point Potency ranking Unique sequences 86/383 12/86 4/12

The activity of purified anti-PD-1 antibodies (n=1 for human PD-1 assay shown) is shown in FIG. 24 and the potency of purified anti-PD-1 antibodies in human and cynomolgus PD-1 reporter assays are listed in Table 16.

TABLE 16 Potency (nM) Cynomolgus Cynomolgus Human PD-1 Human PD-1 PD-1 PD-1 Ab ID n = 1 n = 2 n = 1 n = 2 A-1 (20A2) 3.10 1.27 2.34 ND A-3 (20C1) 5.51 1.88 5.17 4.16 A-2 (22D4) 2.43 0.71 2.72 2.89

Molecular Rescue and Sequencing of PD-1 Antagonist Antibodies

RNA (total or mRNA) was purified from wells containing the PD-1 antagonist antibody-producing hybridoma cells using a Qiagen RNeasy mini or the Invitrogen mRNA catcher plus kit. Purified RNA was used to amplify the antibody heavy and light chain variable region (V) genes using cDNA synthesis via reverse transcription, followed by a polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The fully human antibody gamma heavy chain was obtained using the Qiagen One Step Reverse Transcriptase PCR kit (Qiagen). This method was used to generate the first strand cDNA from the RNA template and then to amplify the variable region of the gamma heavy chain using multiplex PCR. The 5′ gamma chain-specific primer annealed to the signal sequence of the antibody heavy chain, while the 3′ primer annealed to a region of the gamma constant domain. The fully human kappa light chain was obtained using the Qiagen One Step Reverse Transcriptase PCR kit (Qiagen). This method was used to generate the first strand cDNA from the RNA template and then to amplify the variable region of the kappa light chain using multiplex PCR. The 5′ kappa light chain-specific primer annealed to the signal sequence of the antibody light chain while the 3′ primer annealed to a region of the kappa constant domain. The fully human lambda light chain was obtained using the Qiagen One Step Reverse Transcriptase PCR kit (Qiagen). This method was used to generate the first strand cDNA from the RNA template and then to amplify the variable region of the lambda light chain using multiplex PCR. The 5′ lambda light chain-specific primer annealed to the signal sequence of light chain while the 3′ primer annealed to a region of the lambda constant domain.

The amplified cDNA was purified enzymatically using exonuclease I and alkaline phosphatase and the purified PCR product was sequenced directly. Amino acid sequences were deduced from the corresponding nucleic acid sequences bioinformatically. Two additional, independent RT-PCR amplification and sequencing cycles were completed for each hybridoma sample in order to confirm that any mutations observed were not a consequence of the PCR. The derived amino acid sequences were then analyzed to determine the germline sequence origin of the antibodies and to identify deviations from the germline sequence. A comparison of each of the heavy and light chain sequences to their original germline sequences are indicated. The amino acid sequences corresponding to complementary determining regions (CDRs) of the sequenced antibodies were aligned and these alignments were used to group the clones by similarity.

Primary Cell Binding Assays

The binding of hybridoma supernatants to PD-1 expressed by primary human and cynomolgus monkey cells were tested by flow cytometry. For human primary cell binding assay, purified human T cells (Biological Specialty Corp.) were thawed and suspended at a concentration of 2.5×10⁶ cells/mL. T cells were stimulated with 5 ug/mL of anti-human CD3 clone OKT3 (eBioscience) and 1 g/mL of anti-human CD28 (BD Pharmingen) for 72 hours at 37° C./5% CO₂ in a plate that had been pre-coated with 5 μg/mL anti mouse IgG Fc (Pierce). After 72 hours, cells were removed, washed and suspended at a concentration of 0.5×10⁶ cells/mL with 10 ng/mL of IL-2 (Pepro Tech). Cells were then incubated for another 48 hours at 37° C./5% CO₂. For cynomolgus primary cell binding assay, cynomolgus PBMCs (SNBL) were thawed and suspended in a concentration between 4×10⁶ and 5×10⁶ cells/mL. PBMCs were stimulated with 1 μg/mL of anti-human CD3 clone SP34 (BD Pharmingen) and 1 g/mL of anti-human CD28 (BD Pharmingen) for 72 hours at 37° C./5% CO₂ in a plate that had been pre-coated with 5 μg/mL anti-mouse IgG Fc (Pierce). After 72 hours, cells were removed, washed and suspended at a concentration of 0.5×10⁶ cells/mL with 20 ng/mL of IL-2 (Pepro Tech). Cells were then incubated for another 48 hours at 37° C./5% CO₂. After the final incubation, cells were prepared for flow cytometry by incubation with normalized hybridoma supernatants, positive control antibodies and isotype control antibodies at 1 μg/mL final concentration. Alexa Fluor 647 AffiniPure F(ab′)₂ Fragment Goat Anti-Human IgG (H+L) (Jackson ImmunoReserach) at 5 μg/mL was used for secondary detection and 8.25 nM YoPro1 (Invitrogen) was used for a live/dead cell stain. Cells were then ran on BD FACSCanto II flow cytometer to detect anti-PD-1 antibody binding. Results are expressed as FACS geomean of PD-1 expressing cells and data are shown in Table 17.

TABLE 17 Primary Cyno Primary Human Antibody ID (FACS Geomean) (FACS Geomean) A-1 (20A2) 194 326 A-3 (20C1) 187 312 A-2 (22D4) 188 329

Receptor—Ligand Competition Assay

PD-1-binding hybridoma supernatants were then tested for their ability to block PD-1 from binding ligand. Competitive binding assays were performed on the antigen-specific hybridoma supernatant samples using FACS on HEK293 cells transiently expressing human PD-1 as follows. HEK293 cells expressing human PD-1 were mixed with the antibody sample (hybridoma supernatants specific for PD-1) and incubated for 1 hour at 4° C., and then washed twice. Cells with bound sample were then incubated with huPD-L1-Fc-Alexa647 or huPD-L2-Fc-Alexa 647 (R&D systems, Minneapolis, Minn.) for 45 minutes at 4° C. The 7-AAD cell viability stain was then added and the cells incubated for a further 15 minutes at 4° C., washed twice and resuspended in FACS buffer. Samples were analyzed using a BD Accuri™ Flow Cytometer and an Intellicyt HyperCyt autoSampler. The data in the Table 18 reflects that percent inhibition of human PD-L1 of PD-L2 binding to human PD-1 at 1 ug/mL.

TABLE 18 Competition analysis of anti-PD-1 antibodies with PD-L1 or PD-L2 binding to PD-1 R-L PD-L1 R-L PD-L2 Antibody ID (% inhibition) (% inhibition) A-1 (20A2) 72% 71% A-3 (20C1) 64% 65% A-2 (22D4) 71% 72%

Affinity Gap Analysis

Kinetic measurements of several of the antibodies were evaluated using the KinExA® method. This method involves solution-based determination of formal affinity measurements at equilibrium.

Poly(methyl methacrylate) or PMMA beads were coated with biotinylated human PD-1 by first adsorption coating the PMMA beads with biotinylated BSA, Neutravidin and then with biotinylated PD-1.

KinExA experiments were performed using an automated flow immunoassay system, KinExA 3200, in which beads coupled with PD-1 served as the solid phase. Briefly, a constant amount of anti-hPD-1 mAbs (3 nM or InM or 100 pM) was incubated with titrating concentrations of h-PD-1 or cy-PD-1 starting at 100 nM in sample buffer (PBS with 0.1% BSA to reduce nonspecific binding). Antigen/antibody complexes were incubated at RT for 48 hrs to 72 hrs to allow equilibrium to be reached. The mixture was drawn through the PD-1-coupled beads to accumulate unbound antibody. The volumes and flow rates of the mixture were varied, depending upon the specific signal obtained in each experiment.

The captured mAb was detected using solutions containing a secondary Ab Goat anti-Hu IgG (H+L)-Alexa647 antibody in sample buffer. The bound signals were converted into relative values as a proportion of control in the absence of hu- or cy-PD-1. Two replicates of each sample were measured for all equilibrium experiments. The equilibrium dissociation constant (Kd) was obtained from nonlinear regression analysis of the data using a one-site homogeneous binding model contained within the KinExA n-curve analysis software. The software calculates the Kd and determines the 95% confidence interval by fitting the data points to a theoretical Kd curve. The 95% confidence interval is given as Kd low and Kd high.

TABLE 19 Affinity of purified anti-PD-1 antibodies for recombinant human and cynomolgus PD-1 Affinity for Affinity for human PD-1 Cyno PD-1 95% % 95% % Hu:Cy KD CI active KD CI active Fold mAb ID (pM) (pM) mAb (pM) (pM) mAb difference A-1 (20A2) 17  13-23 25 15  12-19 21 0.9 A-3 (20C1) 16  13-21 17 60  52-68 18 3.8 A-2 (22D4) 4.5 3.6-5.5 27 3.7 2.7-4.8 23 0.8 Kd calculated by taking PD-1 concentration as known concentration and letting software to calculate Kd and the mAb concentration.

Activity Confirmation of Purified Antibodies in MLR assay

Human immature monocyte-derived dendritic cells (Astarte) were thawed and differentiated into mature dendritic cells through culture in IL-4, GM-CSF and TNF-a for 72 hours using CellXVivo Human Monocyte-Derived Dendritic Cell Differentiation Kit (R&D Systems #CDK004). The non-adherent and loosely adherent cells were removed, combined and centrifuged to pellet the cells. After the media was removed, the cells were resuspended in X-Vivo-15 media at 400×10̂3 cells/mL and dendritic cells were added to each cell of a 96-well plate (20 k cells in 50 μL). Human T cells (Astarte) were quickly thawed and washed in X-Vivo-15 media. The cells were re-suspended at 2×10̂6 cells/mL and 100 μL was added to each well (200 k cells/100 μL). Antibodies were diluted and added to each well in a 50 μL total volume. The mixture was incubated for three days at 37 degrees. At this time, the cells were spun down and 175 μL were used to measure IL2 production as a measure of T cell proliferation using the IL-2 V-Plex Kit (MSD) as per manufacturers recommendations.

TABLE 20 Antibody ID MLR IC50 (nM) MLR IC50 (nM) A-1 (20A2) 0.73 0.80 A-3 (20C1) 0.97 1.65 A-2 (22D4) 0.65 0.58

Example 13

When possible, the A-1 (20A2), A-3 (20C1), and A-2 (22D4) anti-PD-1 variable domain sequences were engineered to remove motifs having a risk of sidechain degradation. Such amino acid motifs include: (1) CDR ‘NG’ and ‘NT’ sequences prone to asparagine deamidation, (2) CDR ‘DG,’ ‘DH’, ‘DS,’ and ‘DT’ sequences prone to aspartic acid isomerization, (3) and CDR3 tryptophans prone to oxidation. Typically, substitution identities were derived from germline sequences or from sequence-related PD-1-binding mAbs. For cases in which the bioinformatics or structural analyses did not provide a clear substitution identity, residue types chemically similar to the parent residue were selected.

Variable domain sequence motifs violating multiple sequence alignment-based pair-wise residue covariance trends were also removed. Remediation of pair-wise covariance violators through substitution with germline or germline-related residue types can lead to better manufacturability due to increased mAb expression levels and biophysical stabilities. See, Kannan, G. Method of Correlated Mutational Analysis to Improve Therapeutic Antibodies. US Patent Application PCT/US2012/028596 filed Mar. 9, 2012. Substitution identities for covariance violators were selected using approached similar to that used to remediate degradation sites, as discussed above.

Engineering of 20A2 led to 20A2.003. Engineering of 20C1 led to 20C1.006 and 20C1.009. Engineering of 22D4 led to 22D4.006 and 22D4.017.

Example 14

The in vivo activity of the fusion protein comprising the anti-PD-1 antibody 22D4.017 fused to a monomer IL-21 double mutein comprising R9E and R76A mutations (“[22D4.017]-[R9E:R76A](monomer)”) was evaluated in naïve non-human cynomolgus monkeys. A first group of monkeys received the anti-PD-1 antibody 22D4.017 alone (not fused to an IL-21 mutein), and a second group of monkeys received the fusion protein [22D4.017]-[R9E:R76A] (monomer). Pharmacodynamic (PD) parameters were monitored using FACS in peripheral blood and included immune cell dynamics and STAT3 transcription factor phosphorylation (pSTAT3) in lymphocytes. Serum cytokines and perforin were also examined by Millipore Milliplex® multi-analyte profiling (MAP) multiplex assay. Pre-dose analysis of peripheral blood parameters was conducted to allow normalization of datasets to baseline. Dosing began on Day 1. Blood and serum were drawn at predetermined fixed time points.

Despite the activation of Ki67 [FIGS. 25A and 25B] and STAT3 [FIGS. 25C and 25D] in T cells, no significant increase in the bulk T cell population was observed in the groups administered either the 22D4.017 antibody or the [22D4.017]-[R9E:R76A] (monomer) fusion protein [FIGS. 25A and 25B], suggesting that both of these treatments were insufficient by themselves to induce expansion of the bulk T cell population [FIGS. 25E and 25F]. These data support the notion that systemic blockade of PD-1 signaling may have a more global impact on the bulk T cell population including the activation of STAT3 signaling and Ki67, but that these changes may be insufficient by themselves to manifest significant functional output (as also evidenced by the failure of anti-PD-1 monotherapy or fusion protein treatments to induce a more generalized T cell expansion).

To better understand how changes in proximal signaling might specifically impact PD-1 expressing T cells, and because PD-1(+) T cells reflect only a small fraction of the bulk T cell population in the peripheral blood, these cells were examined more directly by gating on PD-1(+) CD4 and CD8 T cells using a non-competing PD-1 detection mAb [FIGS. 16 and 17]. After an initial mild reduction in absolute numbers of circulating PD-1(+) cells, this population remained stable in the [22D4.017] antibody group. In contrast, after an initial reduction in the numbers of peripheral blood PD-1(+) CD4 and CD8 T cells, there was a significant rebound (above baseline) in the number of PD-1(+) cells observed at 336h post-dosing in the [22D4.017]-[R9E:R76A] (monomer) fusion protein treatment group population [FIG. 25G]. Thus, despite the lack of significant expansion of the bulk population, these data suggest that PD-1(+) T cell numbers are increased selectively upon administration of the [22D4.017]-[R9E:R76A] (monomer) fusion protein [Figure].

To determine a possible functional impact of the expansion of PD-1(+) T cells, a relationship between the expansion of PD-1(+) CD4/8 T cells and serum perforin was examined. Indeed, the data suggest that there is a positive relationship between these two parameters: serum perforin is highest in animals administered the [22D4.017]-[R9E:R76A] (monomer) fusion protein, which experienced significant increase in peripheral blood PD-1(+) T cells [FIG. 25I].

Taken together these data suggest that, although systemic exposure of the [22D4.017]-[R9E:R76A] (monomer) fusion protein failed to manifest an increase in the total bulk T cell population, blockade of PD-1 and concurrent delivery of IL-21 signal on the same cell (expressing PD-1) is sufficient to induce population expansion. This also correlates with an increase in serum perforin [FIG. 25I].

Example 15

The following example demonstrates the binding affinities of various anti-PD-1 antibodies.

The anti-PD-1 antibody::PD-1 Octet binding affinities where characterized as follows. To quantitate the K_(D) binding affinity (equilibrium dissociation constant) between the anti-PD-1 antibodies and recombinant, soluble human and cynomolgus macaque PD-1, association and dissociation rate constants were measured using either a Pall® ForteBio® Octet® RED384 instrument in 16 tip mode or a Pall® Octet® HTX instrument in 96 tip mode. In all cases, second generation amine reactive fiber optic biosensor tips (AR2G) were used to covalently capture the antibodies to final loading levels between 2.5 and 4 nm. The binding assay method used the following immobilization steps: (1) equilibration in water, 60 seconds; (2) activation with fresh 20 mM 1-Ethyl-3-[3-dimethylaminopropyl] carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC) mixed with 10 mM N-hydroxysulfosuccinimide (sulfo-NHS), 600 seconds; (3) immobilization of 20 nM antibodies diluted in 10 mM acetate pH 6.0 buffer, 2000 seconds; (4) quenching with 1M ethanolamine, 300 seconds; and finally (5) a baseline incubation in Octet running buffer (10 mM TRIS pH 7.5, 150 mM NaCl, 1 mM CaCl₂, 0.13% (v/v) Triton X-100 and 0.10 mg/ml Bovine Serum Albumin(BSA), 60 seconds. All experiments were run with the manufacture-suggested 384 well black sample plates (100 μl volume per well) at 27° C. and 1000 RPM.

For each Ab::PD-1 interaction, a column of eight tips were equally immobilized as described above with the same antibody. Three tips were used to bind a three-point dilution series of soluble human PD-1(1-170)-FLAG-His, three more tips were used to bind a three-point dilution series of soluble cyno PD-1(1-167)-FLAG-His and then the remaining two tips (with Ab immobilized like the rest of the tips in the column) were exposed to Octet® buffer so they could be reference tips. All fiber optic tips were used once and then disposed; i.e. no regeneration. Human and cyno PD-1 binding curves were generated by creating a 1:3 fold serial dilution series of the soluble PD-1 receptor in Octet running buffer; final PD-1 concentrations were 30, 10 and 3.3 nM (except for the IgG4 anti-PD-1 mAb which was PD-1 concentration 33, 11, 3.7 nM). Fiber optic biosensors with the immobilized antibodies were incubated in the wells containing the PD-1 serial dilution series for 300 seconds (association step) and then moved to wells with just the running buffer for 500 seconds (dissociation step).

The raw data was processed with the instrument data analysis software (v10). For each column of sensors, the binding signal of the two reference sensors was averaged and subtracted from the remaining six sample sensors. Reference-subtracted data was then processed with the default software options: Y-axis aligned to the baseline, inter-step correction to the dissociation and finally processed with a Savitzky-Golay filter. Final processed data for each antibody binding to either three human or to three cyno PD-1 concentrations was then globally fit to a 1:1 binding model and graphed. All graphs show both processed data as well as the fit to the 1:1 binding model. The 1:1 binding model fit was used to determine the association rate constant (k_(a); units M⁻¹ sec⁻¹) and the dissociation rate constant (k_(d); units sec 1). The equilibrium dissociation constant (K_(D); units nanomolar (nM)=1×10⁹ Mol/L) was then calculated the as a ratio of k_(d)/k_(a).

FIG. 26 shows the binding profiles for anti-PD-1 antibodies 22D4.017, 20C1.009, and 20A2.003, tested side by side with two anti-PD-1 mAbs (an IgG1 anti-PD-1 mAb and an IgG4 anti-PD-1 mAb). The binding profiles were determined using the Fort6Bio Octet® system. The binding is shown against human and cyno PD-1 receptors.

As shown in FIGS. 26A-26E, the 22D4.017, 20C1.009 and 20A2.003 PD-1 antibodies exhibited K_(D) values that were 2- to-14 fold greater than commercially available antibodies when tested against the human PD-1 protein. In addition, analysis of the cross-reactivity of cyno PD-1 protein with 22D4.017, 20C1.009 and 20A2.003 antibodies showed an overall similar affinity, whereas commercially available antibodies showed around 2-fold difference in affinity (FIG. 26F-26J).

Example 16

The following example demonstrates the stability of various anti-PD-1 antibodies.

Thermal conformational stability of the anti-PD-1 antibodies was characterized as follows. Antibodies 20C1.009 and 22D4.017 were evaluated for thermal stability by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). DSC is a technique that measures heat capacities a function of temperature. The signal from the sample cell is compared to a reference cell lacking the protein. As the temperature of the cells are raised the enthalpy and melting temperature, peak width is measured for each unfolding transition. This provides information on the thermal stability and higher order structure of the protein, including thermal stability of the protein domains. FIG. 27 represents a DSC Thermogram of each anti-PD-1 antibody at 1 mg/mL in A52SuT and Table 21 provides the Tm for each antibody tested.

TABLE 21 Antibody 20C1.009 22D4.017 Tm by DSC 75.1° C. 66.1° C.

Viscosity was additionally determined using a cone and plate (TA Instruments, New Castle, Del.) by measuring the flow resistance due to the frictional forces between molecules. A flow sweep procedure was applied from 100 to 1000 s-1 using a 20 mm 1.988° cone plate and Peltier plate Steel-990918. Viscosity was measured in Pa·s, where 1 m Pa·s=1 cP at 1000 s-1. Viscosity was measured for each antibody at 70 and 150 mg/mL with 0.01% surfactant added to the formulation buffer (A52Su). All samples were measured at room temperature. Viscosity data (1000 Shear Rate) is shown in FIG. 28 and provided in Table 22.

TABLE 22 Antibody cP 70 mg/mL cP 150 mg/mL 22D4.017 3.4 44.7 20C1.009 2.5 7.1

An antibody's stability properties are important factors considered during the development of therapeutic candidates. For example, an antibody's propensity to aggregate (formation of large complexes in solution that can lead to precipitation) can impact shelf life, administration mode (e.g., i.v. vs subcutaneous), and molecule activity. Typically, an antibody's thermostability and viscosity properties are good indicators of an antibody's ability to maintain structural integrity at high temperatures and high concentrations. As the data above demonstrate, 20C1.009 exhibits stability properties that make it particularly suitable as a therapeutic which is amenable to both i.v. and subcutaneous (and high concentration) administration.

Example 17

This example demonstrates IL-21 activity elicited by various fusion proteins.

Various fusion proteins comprising an IL-21 mutein were made and tested for IL-21 activity using the pSTAT3 AlphaLISA® assay. One comprised an anti-TIGIT monoclonal antibody (mAb), while a second comprised an anti-LAG3 mAb. Four cell lines were generated for use in these experiments: (A) a variant Hut78 T cell line that is PD-1 positive, (B) a variant Hut78 T cell line that is TIGIT positive, (C) a variant Hut78 T cell line that is LAG3 positive, and (D) the parental Hut78 T cell line which does not endogenously express PD-1, TIGIT or LAG3. All four cell lines were exposed to (i) rhIL-21 alone, (ii) anti-PD-1 mAb alone, (iii) anti-TIGIT mAb alone, (iv) anti-LAG3 mAb alone, (v) anti-PD-1 mAb fused to an IL-21 (R5Q:R76E) mutein (monomer), (vi) anti-TIGIT mAb fused to an IL-21 (R5Q:R76E) mutein (dimer), and (vii) anti-LAG3 mAb fused to an IL-21 (R5Q:R76E) mutein (dimer).

The results of the STAT3 phosphorylation assay and the EC50s of each molecule for STAT signaling are shown in FIGS. 29A-29D and Table 23, respectively.

TABLE 23 Hut78 Hut78/ Hut78/ Hut78/ Parental PD-1 TIGIT Lag3 EC50 EC50 EC50 EC50 Molecule (pM) (pM) (pM) (pM) rhIL-21 65  59  58 68 Anti-PD-1 mAb — — — — Anti-TIGIT mAb — — — — Anti-LAG3 mAb — — — — Fusion of Anti-PD-1 — 341 — — mAb + IL-21 mutein Fusion of Anti-TIGIT — — 1390 — mAb + IL-21 mutein Fusion of Anti-LAG3 — — — — mAb + IL-21 mutein

As shown in FIGS. 29A-29D and Table 23, the anti-TIGIT and anti-LAG3 fusion proteins exhibited significantly reduced potency (anti-TIGIT) or no measurable potency (anti-LAG3) compared to rhIL-21.

All references, including publications, patent applications, and patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein.

The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in the context of describing the disclosure (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted.

Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range and each endpoint, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value and endpoint is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein.

All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the disclosure and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the disclosure unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the disclosure.

Preferred embodiments of this disclosure are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the disclosure. Variations of those preferred embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the disclosure to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. 

1. An IL-21 mutein comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2, (SEQ ID NO: 2) QGQDX HMXXM XXXXX XVDXL KNXVN DLVPE FLPAP EDVET NCEWS AFSCF QKAQL KSANT GNNEX XIXXX XXXLX XXXXX TNAGR RQKHR LTCPS CDSYE KKPPK EFLXX FXXLL XXMXX QHXSS RTHGS EDS,

wherein “X” represents any amino acid, and wherein said IL-21 mutein amino acid sequence differs from the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1) by at least 1 amino acid.
 2. The IL-21 mutein of claim 1, comprising an amino acid sequence which differs from the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1) by no more than 7 amino acids, or by 3, 4, 5, or 6 amino acids, optionally, by 1 or 2 amino acids.
 3. (canceled)
 4. (canceled)
 5. The IL-21 mutein of claim 1, wherein the difference(s) between the amino acid sequence of the IL-21 mutein and the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1 occur(s) within (A)amino acids 10-15, inclusive, or amino acids 105-123, inclusive, of SEQ ID NO: 2, optionally, wherein the difference(s) occur(s) at amino acids 11, 14, 15, 109, 110, 112, 113, 116, 119, 120, and/or 123 of SEQ ID NO: 2 or (B) amino acids 5-25, inclusive, or amino acids 65-80, inclusive, of SEQ ID NO: 2, optionally, wherein the difference(s) occur(s) at amino acids 5, 8, 9, 12, 13, 16, 19, 23, 65, 66, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, and/or 80 of SEQ ID NO:
 2. 6. (canceled)
 7. The IL-21 mutein of claim 2, comprising an amino acid sequence with one amino acid substitution relative to the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1), optionally, wherein the amino acid substitution occurs at position 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 23, 65, 66, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 109, 110, 112, 113, 116, 117, 119, 120, or 123 of SEQ ID NO: 1 or at position 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 23, 65, 66, 68, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 109, 110, 112, 113, 116, 117, 119, 120, or 123 of SEQ ID NO:
 1. 8. (canceled)
 9. (canceled)
 10. The IL-21 mutein of claim 1, comprising an amino acid substitution: a. at position 5, 8, 9, 12, 14, 15, 65, 66, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 80, 116, or 119 of SEQ ID NO: 1, wherein the substitute amino acid is an aliphatic amino acid b. at position 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 23, 65, 66, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 110, 112, 116, 117, 119, 120, or 123 of SEQ ID NO: 1, wherein the substitute amino acid is an acidic amino acid; c. at position 5, 9, 73, 76, 109, 113, or 116 of SEQ ID NO: 1, wherein the substitute amino acid is a basic amino acid; d. at position 5, 8, 9, 70, or 76 of SEQ ID NO: 1, wherein the substitute amino acid is an aromatic amino acid; e. at position 5, 8, 9, 12, 15, 73, 76, 116, or 119 of SEQ ID NO: 1, wherein the substitute amino acid is an amino acid comprising a side chain amide; f. at position 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 15, 73, 76, 116, or 119 of SEQ ID NO: 1, wherein the substitute amino acid is a non-aromatic amino acid comprising a side chain hydroxyl; g. at position 65, 66, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, or 80 of SEQ ID NO: 1, wherein the substitute amino acid is an imino acid; h. at position 5, 9, 15, 76, 116, or 119 of SEQ ID NO: 1, wherein the substitute amino acid is an amino acid comprising a sulfur-containing side chain; or i. or a combination thereof.
 11. (canceled)
 12. The IL-21 mutein of claim 7, comprising an amino acid substitution with an amino acid at the position according to TABLE A: TABLE A Amino Acid position Amino Acid of SEQ ID NO: 1 (in single letter code) 5 A, D, E, G, H, I, K, L, M, N, Q, S, T, V, or Y 8 A, D, E, N, S, T, V, or Y 9 A, D, E, G, H, I, K, L, M, N, Q, S, T, V, or Y 11 D or S 12 A, D, E, N, S, T, or V 13 D 14 A, D, or S 15 A, E, I, M, N, Q, S, T, or V 16 D or E 19 D 23 D 65 D, G, or P 66 D, G, or P 68 Q 69 D, G, or P 70 E, G, P, or Y 71 L 72 D, G, or P 73 A, D, E, G, H, I, N, P, Q, S, or V 75 D, G, or P 76 A, D, E, G, H, I, K, L, M, N, P, Q, S, T, V, or Y 77 D, G, or P 78 D 79 D 80 G, or P 109 K 110 D 112 D 113 K 116 A, D, E, I, K, L, M, N, S, T, or V 117 D 119 A, D, E, M, N, Q, S, or T 120 D 123 D


13. The IL-21 mutein of claim 1, comprising an amino acid sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 3-21, 23-56, 58-112, 114-198, 249-254, and 283 or an amino acid sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 199 to 208, 210 to 222, 224 to 248, and
 255. 14. (canceled)
 15. The IL-21 mutein of claim 2, comprising an amino acid sequence with two amino acid substitutions relative to the amino acid sequence of human IL-21 (SEQ ID NO: 1), wherein the amino acid substitution occurs at two of positions 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 23, 65, 66, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 109, 110, 112, 113, 116, 117, 119, 120, or 123 of SEQ ID NO:
 1. 16. The IL-21 mutein of claim 15, wherein the amino acid substitutions occur at two of positions 5, 9, 15, 70, 71, 72, 73, and 76 of SEQ ID NO: 1 or at two of positions 5, 9, 73, and 76 or SEQ ID NO: 1, optionally, wherein one of the substitutions occurs at position 76 of SEQ ID NO:
 1. 17. (canceled)
 18. (canceled)
 19. (canceled)
 20. The IL-21 mutein of claim 15, comprising an amino acid substitution at position 5, 9, or 73 of SEQ ID NO: 1, wherein the substitute amino acid is an aliphatic amino acid or acidic amino acid, optionally, wherein the aliphatic amino acid is alanine or wherein the acidic amino acid is glutamic acid.
 21. The IL-21 mutein of claim 15, comprising an amino acid substitution at position 5 of SEQ ID NO: 1, wherein the substitute amino acid is an amino acid with a side chain amide, optionally, glutamine. 22.-29. (canceled)
 30. A conjugate comprising: an IL-21 mutein of claim 1 and a heterologous moiety. 31.-39. (canceled)
 40. The conjugate of claim 30, wherein the IL-21 mutein is directly attached to the Fc of the antibody or the IL-21 mutein is attached to the Fc of the antibody via a linker.
 41. (canceled)
 42. The conjugate of claim 40, wherein said conjugate comprises a single IL-21 mutein, wherein said single IL-21 mutein is linked to the C-terminus of one of the two antibody heavy chains.
 43. The conjugate of claim 40, wherein said conjugate comprises two IL-21 muteins, wherein the first IL-21 mutein is linked to the C-terminus of the first antibody heavy chain, and the second IL-21 mutein is linked to the C-terminus of the second antibody heavy chain, optionally, wherein said first IL-21 mutein has the same amino acid sequence as the second IL-21 mutein.
 44. (canceled)
 45. (canceled)
 46. (canceled)
 47. The conjugate of claim 30, wherein the IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions at two of positions 5, 9, 73, and 76 of SEQ ID NO:
 1. 48. A conjugate comprising an IL-21 mutein comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1, except that said IL-21 mutein comprises amino acid substitutions at any two of positions 5, 9, 73, and 76 of SEQ ID NO: 1, and an anti-PD-1 antibody, wherein the IL-21 mutein is linked to the C-terminus of the anti-PD-1 antibody.
 49. (canceled)
 50. A fusion polypeptide or fusion protein comprising an IL-21 mutein of claim 1 and a heterologous polypeptide or peptide.
 51. (canceled)
 52. A nucleic acid comprising a nucleotide sequence encoding an IL-21 mutein of claim
 1. 53. A vector comprising the nucleic acid of claim
 52. 54. A host cell comprising the nucleic acid of claim
 52. 55. A kit comprising an IL-21 mutein of claim 1, a nucleic acid comprising a nucleotide sequence encoding the IL-21 mutein, a vector or host cell comprising the nucleic acid, a conjugate, fusion polypeptide or fusion protein comprising the IL-21 mutein, or a combination thereof, and a container.
 56. A pharmaceutical composition comprising an IL-21 mutein of claim 1, a nucleic acid comprising a nucleotide sequence encoding the IL-21 mutein, a vector or host cell comprising the nucleic acid, a conjugate, fusion polypeptide or fusion protein comprising the IL-21 mutein, or a combination thereof, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, excipient, or diluent.
 57. A method of making an IL-21 mutein comprising culturing the host cell of claim 54 so as to express the IL-21 mutein and harvesting the expressed IL-21 mutein.
 58. A method of treating a subject in need thereof, comprising administering to the subject in need thereof a pharmaceutical composition of claim 56 in an amount effective to treat the subject.
 59. (canceled) 